Resumen La comida popular al alcance de las personas tiene relevancia social, nutricional e impacta en la salud de forma importante. Este trabajo aborda el uso tanto de la metodología del Design Thinking y de la teoría de la pirámide de la sostenibilidad para mejorar el valor nutritivo y saludable de un alimento popular, buscando al mismo tiempo conservar e incrementar el valor de ese alimento y beneficiar al consumidor. El análisis de la pirámide de sostenibilidad en el diseño de un alimento funcional utilizando la metodología Design Thinking enfatiza el valor nutricional para promover la participación en el diseño de alimentos nutritivos y saludables para la población. Al aplicar este método para el diseño y mejora de alimentos se cubren las expectativas básicas del usuario final de forma empática, permitiendo obtener una mayor certidumbre respecto al emprendimiento en nuevos productos alimentarios con un enfoque sustentable.

Abstract Popular food available to people has social and nutritional relevance and impacts health in an important way. This work addresses the use of both the Design Thinking methodology and the sustainability pyramid theory to improve the nutritional and healthy value of a popular food, seeking at the same time to preserve and increase the value of that food and benefit the consumer. The analysis of the sustainability pyramid in the design of a functional food using the Design Thinking methodology emphasizes nutritional value to promote participation in the design of nutritious and healthy foods for the population. By applying this method to the design and improvement of food, the basic expectations of the end user are met in an empathetic way, allowing greater certainty to be obtained regarding entrepreneurship in new food products with a sustainable approach.

Resumen: Los productos acuáticos reestructurados se procesan principalmente a partir de especies de pescado infravaloradas, recortes de filetes o subproductos de especies de pescado no comerciales. Una de las pesquerías subvaloradas en el sur de México, es la del macabil (Albula vulpes). El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el efecto de la adición de harinas no convencionales y la reducción del nivel de cloruro de sodio en las propiedades mecánicas y funcionales de productos reestructurados de macabil. Se elaboraron reestructurados de macabil para analizar las muestras con harina de amaranto (HA) o harina de grillo (HG) doméstico (0 %, 5 % y 10 %) y tres niveles de sal (0 %, 1 % y 2 %). Se evaluó la pérdida de agua por cocción, la cantidad de agua extraíble y la textura de los geles. El uso de ambas harinas no convencionales disminuyó la pérdida de agua por cocción entre un 49.09 % y 61.97 %, con 1 % de sal. La adición de sal redujo el agua extraíble del reestructurado. Los valores de dureza variaron (P < 0.05) entre tratamientos. La mayor dureza se obtuvo en los tratamientos con HA al 10 % y sal al 1 % (64.55 N) y con HG al 10 % y sal al 2 % (63.50 N). La cohesividad varió de 0.53 a 0.71 (adimensional) en los tratamientos con 1 % y 2 % de sal, indicando pocos cambios en la estructura interna por efecto de los aditivos. Las harinas no convencionales permitieron la gelificación proteica, formando reestructurados con propiedades texturales adecuadas para un producto cárnico. La adición del 10 % de HG común o de HA y 1 % de uso de sal, en la formulación de reestructurados de pescado, ofrece una alternativa saludable en el desarrollo de alimentos de pescado.

Abstract: Restructured seafood products are primarily processed from undervalued fish species, fillet trimmings, or byproducts of non-commercial fish species. One of the underrated fisheries in southern Mexico is that of the bonefish (Albula vulpes). The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of adding non-conventional flours and reducing the sodium chloride level on the mechanical and functional properties of restructured bonefish products. Bonefish restructured products were prepared to analyze samples with (0 %, 5 %, and 10 %) amaranth flour (AF) or cricket flour (CF) and three levels of salt (0 %, 1 % and 2 %). The cooking water loss, the amount of extractable water and the texture from gels were evaluated. The use of both non-conventional flours reduced cooking water loss by 49.09 % to 61.97 % with 1 % salt. The addition of salt reduced the extractable water in the restructured product. Hardness values varied (P < 0.05) among treatments. The highest hardness was obtained in treatments with 10 % AF and 1 % salt (64.55 N) and with 10 % CF and 2 % salt (63.50 N). Cohesiveness ranged from 0.53 to 0.71 (dimensionless) in treatments with 1 % and 2 % salt, indicating minimal changes in internal structure due to additives. Non-conventional flours allowed for protein gelation, forming restructured products with suitable textural properties for a meat product. The addition of 10 % CF or AF and 1 % salt in fish restructured product formulation offers a healthy alternative in the development of fish-based foods.

Resumen: El maíz contiene un gran número de compuestos antioxidantes, muchos de ellos unidos a componentes de la pared celular, por lo que requieren tratamientos para liberarlos, como el uso de enzimas o procesos de fermentación. La fermentación en medio sólido (FMS) con Rhizopus oryzae se ha aplicado para aumentar la capacidad antioxidante (CA) y el contenido fenólico en cereales y leguminosas. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue evaluar el efecto de la FMS con R. oryzae sobre la CA y el contenido de fenoles totales (CFT) del maíz. La FMS se realizó en bolsas zip-lock (25 cm2) a 30 °C/72 h, con un inóculo de 1 x 106 esporas/g. Se tomaron muestras cada 12 h, el extracto se recuperó con etanol al 80 % y se utilizó para determinar el CFT y la CA (ensayo ABTS+, DPPH y FRAP). Los valores más altos se obtuvieron a las 60 h de cultivo, con un CFT de 1.92 mg/ gramos de materia seca (gms) y una CA de 1.47 mg de equivalentes Trolox por gramo de materia seca (mg ET/gms), 1.27 mg ET/gms y 5.8 mg Fe+2/gms para los ensayos de ABTS+, DPPH y FRAP, respectivamente. El uso de FMS permitió aumentar hasta 0.83 y 1.25 veces el CFT y la CA del maíz, con respecto al tiempo 0 h. El maíz fermentado con R. oryzae mostró potencial para ser empleado como materia prima para el desarrollo de alimentos funciona les, al incrementar su CA a través de un bioproceso.

Abstract: Maize contains a large number of antioxidant compounds. However, many of them are not in free form, as they are bound to components of the cell wall of maize kernels. For this reason, the use of treatments is required to release them, such as the use of enzymes or fermentation processes. Fermentation in solid medium (FMS) with Rhizopus oryzae has been applied to increase the antioxidant capacity (AC) and phenolic content in cereals and legumes. The objective of the present work was to evaluate the effect of FMS with R. oryzae on AC and total phenolic content (TPC) of maize. Fermentation on solid medium was carried out in zip-lock bags (25 cm2) at 30 °C for 72 h, with an inoculum of 1 x 106 spores/g. Samples were taken every 12 h, the extract was recovered with 80% ethanol, and used to determine TPC and AC (ABTS+, DPPH and FRAP essay). The highest values were obtained at 60 h of culture, with a TPC of 1.92 mg/gram dry metter (gdm) and an AC of 1.47 mg TE/gmd, 1.27 mg TE/gdm and 5.8 mg Fe+2/gdm for the ABTS+, DPPH and FRAP assays, respectively. The use of FMS allowed to increase up to 0.83 and 1.25 times the CFT and CA of corn, with respect to time zero. Corn fermented with R. oryzae showed potential to be used as a raw material for the development of functional foods, by increase its AC through a bioprocess.

Abstract Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease characterized by the production of autoantibodies directed against endogenous antigens causing various clinical manifestations, chronic inflammation and tissue damage. Although the pathophysiology of SLE remains unknown, it is recognized that genetic, epigenetic, environmental and neuroendocrine factors are involved in the development of the disease and its complications. A notable proportion of patients with SLE also present obesity, and this dysmetabolic profile can cause renal, musculoskeletal and/or respiratory deterioration, fatigue, various pathophysiological alterations and functional deterioration. In this context, precision nutrition emerges as a promising tool in the inflammatory control of SLE, especially in patients with associated obesity. Various studies demonstrate the beneficial influence of balanced dietary patterns in macronutrients with foods rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and polyphenols on the inflammatory control of SLE and the most diverse pathologies, highlighting the Mediterranean diet and plant-based diets. Finally, the intestinal microbiota may play a relevant role in this clinical scenario, since dysbiosis is associated with inflammatory processes and immune deregulation. It is believed that precision nutrition can modulate inflammatory profiles and immune dysfunctions to ensure better quality of life and metabolic well-being of SLE patients with the support of precision omics technologies.

Resumen El lupus eritematoso sistémico (LES) es una enfermedad autoinmune caracterizada por la producción de autoanticuerpos dirigidos contra antígenos endógenos causando diversas manifestaciones clínicas, inflamación crónica y daño tisular. Aunque la fisiopatología del LES sigue siendo desconocida, se reconoce que factores genéticos, epigenéticos, ambientales y neuroendocrinos están implicados en el desarrollo de la enfermedad y sus complicaciones. Una proporción notable de pacientes con LES presenta también obesidad, y este perfil dismetabólico puede producir deterioro renal, musculoesquelético y/o respiratorio, fatiga, diversas alteraciones fisiopatológicas y deterioro funcional. En este contexto, la nutrición de precisión emerge como una herramienta prometedora en el control inflamatorio del LES, especialmente en pacientes con obesidad asociada. Diversos estudios demuestran la influencia beneficiosa de patrones dietéticos equilibrados en macronutrientes con alimentos ricos en fibra, vitaminas, minerales, antioxidantes y polifenoles en el control inflamatorio del LES y de las más diversas patologías, destacando la dieta Mediterránea y las dietas basadas en plantas/vegetales. Por último, la microbiota intestinal puede tener un papel relevante en este escenario clínico, ya que la disbiosis se asocia con procesos inflamatorios y desregulación inmune. Se cree que con la nutrición de precisión se pueden modular los perfiles inflamatorios y las disfunciones inmunitarias para garantizar una mejor calidad de vida y el bienestar metabólico de los pacientes con LES con el apoyo de las tecnologías de precisión ómicas.

Abstract The germination of quinua improves the content of polyphenols, flavonoids, amino acids, dietary fiber, vitamin E, antioxidants and other bioactive compounds, making this pseudocereal a nutritious and healthy source for the preparation of functional foods. The aim of this work was to assess the effect of the germination of quinua on the nutritional, biological and functional properties, in turn to be able to analyze the potential that this golden grain has in the food industry. For the systematic review, the databases (Scopus, Scielo and Science Direct) were used, following the PRISMA guideline and the PIO strategy (Population, Intervention, Outputs), which helped to formulate the search equations and to identify the most relevant articles of the last 5 years. The results of the bibliometric analysis showed that the germination of quinua improves the nutritional properties and the content of secondary metabolites, also represents a potential source for the development of food products with functional and nutraceutical properties. A recent study confirms that after 4 days of germination the total phenolic content of various types of quinua ranges between 39.29 and 782.15 mg/100 g, indicating a powerful ability to eliminate free radicals, turning this pseudocereal into a raw material with the ability to be applied in the formulation of various food products such as bread, cookies, pizzas, beverages, yogurt, cheeses, etc.

Resumen La germinación de la quinua mejora el contenido de polifenoles, flavonoides, aminoácidos, fibra dietética, vitamina E, antioxidantes y otros compuestos bioactivos, convirtiendo a este pseudocereal en una fuente nutritiva y saludable para la elaboración de alimentos funcionales. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar el efecto de la germinación de quinua sobre las propiedades nutricionales, biológicas y funcionales, a su vez poder analizar el potencial que tiene este grano de oro en la industria alimentaria. Para la revisión sistemática, se empleó las bases de datos (Scopus, Scielo y Science Direct), siguiendo la directriz PRISMA y la estrategia PIO (Población, Intervención, Outputs), los cuales ayudaron a formular las ecuaciones de búsqueda y a identificar los artículos más relevantes de los últimos 5 años. Los resultados del análisis bibliométrico, evidenciaron que la germinación de quinua mejora las propiedades nutricionales y el contenido de metabolitos secundarios, también representa una fuente potencial para el desarrollo de productos alimentarios con propiedades funcionales y nutraceúticas. Un estudio reciente confirmo que después de 4 días de germinación el contenido fenólico total de varios tipos de quinua oscila entre 39,29 y 782,15 mg/100 g, lo que indica una potente capacidad de eliminación de radicales libres, convirtiendo a este pseudocereal en una materia prima con capacidad de ser aplicada en la formulación de diversos productos alimentarios como panes, galletas, pizzas, bebidas, yogurt, quesos, etc.

Abstract Sprouts are foods that have been winning consumers for their pleasant freshness and are used to accompany various dishes, both at home and in a large number of restaurants around the world. In addition, they represent a food of high nutritional quality since they are a source of minerals, vitamins, and bioactive compounds. The use of elicitors can improve the nutritional quality of these foods. In this study, five concentrations (0, 10-2, 10-3, 10-4, and 10-5 M) of benzoic acid were evaluated in lentil (Lens culinaris L.) sprouts. Biomass production, total soluble solids, total phenolic compounds, total flavonoids, and total antioxidant capacity were quantified. Elicitation with BA at low concentrations significantly improved the accumulation of DM and bioactive compounds; on the other hand, high concentrations significantly reduced these parameters. Elicitation with BA is a simple and efficient alternative to promote biomass production and induce the biosynthesis of bioactive compounds in lentil sprouts to obtain functional foods.

Resumen Los brotes o germinados son alimentos que han ido conquistando a los consumidores por su agradable frescura y se usan acompañando a diversos platos, tanto a nivel doméstico como en un gran número de restaurantes de todo el mundo. Además, representan un alimento de alta calidad nutricional, debido a que son fuente de minerales, vitaminas y compuestos bioactivos. La utilización de elicitores puede mejorar la calidad nutricional de estos alimentos. En este estudio se evaluaron cinco concentraciones (0, 10-2, 10-3, 10-4 y 10-5 M) de ácido benzoico en germinados de lenteja (Lens culinaris L.). Se cuantificó la producción de biomasa, sólidos solubles totales, compuestos fenólicos totales, flavonoides totales y la capacidad antioxidante total. La elicitación con AB en bajas concentraciones mejoró significativamente la acumulación de MS y compuestos bioactivos; en cambio altas concentraciones redujeron significativamente estos parámetros. La elicitación con AB es una alternativa simple y eficiente para promover la producción de biomasa e inducir la biosíntesis de compuestos bioactivos en germinados de lenteja, para obtener alimentos funcionales.

Resumen El consumo de alimentos funcionales ha mostrado un aumento progresivo debido a los beneficios nutricionales que ofrecen. Este estudio se centró en la innovación en tecnología alimentaria aplicada a la producción de quesos funcionales utilizando microcápsulas de harina de frijol negro (Phaseolus vulgaris) como ingrediente clave. El objetivo de la presente investigación fue analizar su caracterización hedónica, evaluar los atributos más relevantes y las variables que influyen en el consumidor potencial. La metodología empleada consistió en la elaboración de microcápsulas de harina de frijol, su incorporación en un queso ranchero, la selección de consumidores como jueces para un panel y la evaluación sensorial comparando el queso propuesto con uno comercial a través de la escala de Likert. El análisis estadístico incluyó pruebas de Kruskal-Wallis, coeficientes de correlación de Spearman, análisis de componentes principales, un mapa de posicionamiento de atributos y una matriz de correlaciones. Los resultados sugieren que existen diferencias en la percepción de atributos como el olor, sabor, cremosidad, suavidad, consistencia, resistencia, firmeza, carácter graso y acidez, los cuales desempeñaron un papel determinante en las propiedades sensoriales que los panelistas consideraron diferenciadoras en el queso funcional; además, se halló que características sociodemográficas, psicológicas y de comportamiento son variables fundamentales en la aceptación. El queso funcional es viable para satisfacer la demanda de consumidores que buscan alimentos innovadores y beneficios para la salud. Se exhibe la importancia de la conjunción de la tecnología alimentaria, factores sensoriales y socioeconómicos en el desarrollo de alimentos funcionales.

Summary Consumption of functional foods has shown a progressive increase due to the nutritional benefits they offer. This study focused on innovation in food technology applied to the production of functional cheeses using microcapsules of black bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) flour as a key ingredient. The aim of the study was to analyze its hedonic characterization, evaluate the most relevant attributes and variables that influence the potential consumer. The methodology used consisted in the elaboration of bean flour microcapsules, their incorporation into a ranch cheese, the selection of consumers as judges for a panel and sensory evaluation comparing the proposed cheese with a commercial one through the Likert scale. Statistical analysis included Kruskal-Wallis tests, Spearman correlation coefficients, principal component analysis, an attribute positioning map, and a correlation matrix. Results suggest that there are differences in the perception of attributes such as smell, taste, creaminess, softness, consistency, strength, firmness, fatty character and acidity, which played a determining role in the sensory properties that panelists considered differentiating in the functional cheese; in addition, it was found that sociodemographic, psychological and behavioral characteristics are fundamental variables in the acceptance. Functional cheese is viable to meet the consumers demand for innovative foods and health benefits, the importance of the combination of food technology, sensory and socioeconomic factors in the development of functional foods is shown.

RESUMEN Introducción: La espondilitis enteropática es una enfermedad inflamatoria, sistémica y crónica que se caracteriza por afectar el aparato digestivo y el sistema osteomioarticular; el proceso inflamatorio genera manifestaciones clínicas que afectan la capacidad funcional y la percepción de calidad de vida de los pacientes. Objetivo: Evaluar los resultados de una intervención nutricional orientada al control del proceso inflamatorio en pacientes con espondilitis enteropática. Métodos: Se realizó una investigación observacional y descriptiva longitudinal que incluyó como universo a 19 pacientes con diagnóstico confirmado de espondilitis enteropática atendidos en el Hospital Andino de Chimborazo en el periodo comprendido entre julio 2022 y julio 2023. La muestra quedó conformada por 17 pacientes. Se aplicó una intervención nutricional durante 10 meses que incluyó como elemento central la suplementación con alimentos ricos en probióticos según esquema definido por especialista en nutrición clínica. Resultados: Promedio de edad de 43,51 años, predominio del sexo femenino (64,70 %) y del tiempo de evolución de la enfermedad entre 5 y 10 años (58,82 %). Todos los marcadores de inflamación medidos durante el estudio mejoraron durante el seguimiento realizado a los pacientes; a los 9 meses se identificó aumento del porcentaje de pacientes con proteína C reactiva negativa y fibrinógeno y velocidad de sedimentación globular normal. Conclusiones: La intervención nutricional aplicada contribuye a mejorar los valores séricos de los marcadores de inflamación en los pacientes con diagnóstico de espondilitis enteropática.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Enteropathic spondylitis is an inflammatory, systemic and chronic disease that is characterized by affecting the digestive system and the osteomyoarticular system; The inflammatory process generates clinical manifestations that affect the functional capacity and perception of quality of life of patients. Objective: To evaluate the results of a nutritional intervention aimed at controlling the inflammatory process in patients with enteropathic spondylitis. Methods: A longitudinal observational and descriptive investigation was carried out that included as a universe 19 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of enteropathic spondylitis treated at the Andino Hospital of Chimborazo in the period between July 2022 and July 2023. The sample was made up of 17 patients. A nutritional intervention was applied for 10 months that included as a central element supplementation with foods rich in probiotics according to a scheme defined by a clinical nutrition specialist. Results: Average age of 43.51 years, predominance of the female sex (64.70%) and duration of the disease between 5 and 10 years (58.82%). All inflammation markers measured during the study improved during the patients' follow-up; At 9 months, an increase in the percentage of patients with negative C-reactive protein and fibrinogen and normal erythrocyte sedimentation rate was identified. Conclusions: The applied nutritional intervention contributed to improving serum values of inflammation markers in patients diagnosed with enteropathic spondylitis.

ABSTRACT New food concepts and categories are constantly evolving, and it is difficult to communicate this updated nutrition knowledge efficiently and transparently, resulting in knowledge gaps that make it difficult for consumers to make informed healthy eating choices. With this in mind, this work aims to help clarify new nutrition categories and definitions and help educate consumers, as well as health professionals, about the potential impact of these foods on health, based on current scientific evidence.

RESUMO A conceptualização e categorização de alimentos é um processo em constante atualização e é importante que qualquer evolução relevante se transmita de maneira eficiente, transparente e regular a toda a população. Desta forma, o consumidor tem a possibilidade de fazer uma seleção, informada, de produtos que se adequem a uma alimentação saudável. Tendo isso em mente, este artigo sintetiza a informação disponível acerca de determinadas categorias, tipos e definições de alimentos e pretende contribuir para que os consumidores entendam o potencial impacto que estes alimentos podem ter na sua saúde, com base em evidências científicas atuais.

Abstract Currently, the food industry prioritizes the safety and quality of products, facing the challenge of maintaining sensory and nutritional integrity. To address this challenge, emerging non-thermal technologies are being explored that offer significant advantages in improving food quality over conventional technologies. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how these innovative technologies can transform the traditional food processing landscape as we know it. Non-thermal technologies have the potential to reduce energy consumption for food production, processing and packaging, compared to conventional thermal treatments. Furthermore, these technologies are particularly suitable for efficiently preserving bioactive compounds present in foods. This review describes the fundamental principles, applications, advantages and limitations of emerging technologies in food processing. These technologies include pulsed electric field, ultrasound, cold plasma, high pressure, irradiation, light-emitting diodes, pulsed light and oscillating magnetic fields. Despite the large number of studies on the subject, more research is required to optimize and improve the efficiency of the application of these technologies, alone or in combination, in food processing. The bioaccessibility and bioactivity of the compounds, nutritional value, shelf life and sensory aspects may be variables of interest.

Resumen En la actualidad, la industria alimentaria da prioridad a la seguridad y calidad de los productos, enfrentándose al desafío de mantener la integridad sensorial y nutricional. Para abordar este desafío, se vienen explorando tecnologías no térmicas emergentes que ofrecen ventajas significativas en la mejora de la calidad de los alimentos frente a las tecnologías convencionales. Esta revisión tiene como objetivo proporcionar una comprensión integral de cómo estas tecnologías innovadoras pueden transformar el panorama tradicional del procesamiento de alimentos tal como lo conocemos. Las tecnologías no térmicas tienen el potencial de reducir el consumo de energía destinado a la producción, procesamiento y envasado de alimentos, en comparación con los tratamientos térmicos convencionales. Además, estas tecnologías son particularmente adecuadas para preservar eficientemente los compuestos bioactivos presentes en los alimentos. En esta revisión se describen los principios fundamentales, aplicaciones, ventajas y limitaciones de las tecnologías emergentes en el procesamiento de alimentos. En estas tecnologías se incluyen, campo eléctrico pulsado, ultrasonido, plasma frío, alta presión, irradiación, diodos emisores de luz, luz pulsada y campos magnéticos oscilantes. A pesar de la gran cantidad de estudios respecto al tema, se requiere mayor investigación para optimizar y mejorar la eficiencia de la aplicación de estas tecnologías, solas o en combinación, en el procesamiento de alimentos. La bioaccesibilidad y bioactividad de los compuestos, el valor nutricional, la vida útil y los aspectos sensoriales pueden ser variables de interés.

Resumo A microbiota gastrointestinal regula as funções do corpo e desempenha um papel importante na sua saúde. A disbiose leva a uma série de doenças crônicas, como diabetes, obesidade, inflamação, aterosclerose, etc. No entanto, essas doenças podem ser prevenidas pelo uso de probióticos − microrganismos vivos que beneficiam a microflora e, portanto, melhoram a saúde do organismo hospedeiro. Os probióticos mais comuns incluem bactérias do ácido láctico dos gêneros Bifidobacterium e Propionibacterium. Nós estudamos as propriedades probióticas das seguintes cepas: Bifidobacterium adolescentis АС-1909, Bifidobacterium longum infantis АС-1912, Propionibacterium jensenii В-6085, Propionibacterium freudenreichii В-11921, Propionibacterium thoenii В-6082 В-6082 acid e Propionibacterium thoenii В-6082 В-6082 acidibion. A atividade antimicrobiana foi determinada pelo método de 'blocos de ágar' contra as seguintes culturas de teste: Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Salmonella enterica ATCC 14028, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Pseudomonas aeruginosa B6643, Proteus vulgaris ATCC 63 e Listeria monocytogenes moderada atividade ATCC 7644. Uma atividade antimicrobiana moderada contra todas as culturas de teste foi registrado em Bifidobacterium adolescentis АС-1909, Propionibacterium jensenii В-6085 e Propionibacterium thoenii В-6082. A atividade antioxidante foi determinada pelo método de inibição do DPPH em todas as cepas de ácido lático. Nosso estudo indicou que algumas cepas de Propionibacterium e Bifidobacterium − ou, teoricamente, seus consórcios − poderiam ser usadas como culturas probióticas em suplementos dietéticos ou alimentos funcionais para prevenir uma série de doenças crônicas.

Abstract The gastrointestinal microflora regulates the body’s functions and plays an important role in its health. Dysbiosis leads to a number of chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, inflammation, atherosclerosis, etc. However, these diseases can be prevented by using probiotics – living microorganisms that benefit the microflora and, therefore, improve the host organism's health. The most common probiotics include lactic acid bacteria of the Bifidobacterium and Propionibacterium genera. We studied the probiotic properties of the following strains: Bifidobacterium adolescentis АС-1909, Bifidobacterium longum infantis АС-1912, Propionibacterium jensenii В-6085, Propionibacterium freudenreichii В-11921, Propionibacterium thoenii В-6082, and Propionibacterium acidipropionici В-5723. Antimicrobial activity was determined by the ‘agar blocks’ method against the following test cultures: Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Salmonella enterica ATCC 14028, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Pseudomonas aeruginosa B6643, Proteus vulgaris ATCC 63, and Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7644. Moderate antimicrobial activity against all the test cultures was registered in Bifidobacterium adolescentis АС-1909, Propionibacterium jensenii В-6085, and Propionibacterium thoenii В-6082. Antioxidant activity was determined by the DPPH inhibition method in all the lactic acid strains. Our study indicated that some Propionibacterium and Bifidobacterium strains or, theoretically, their consortia could be used as probiotic cultures in dietary supplements or functional foods to prevent a number of chronic diseases.

The potential of four commercial clones of unripe acerola fruit was investigated regarding a source of nutraceuticals and functional foods for industrial use. The chemical profiling of the BRS 235-Apodi, BRS 236-Cereja, BRS 237-Roxinha, and BRS 238-Frutacor clones was determined by the ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF/MS-MS) technique coupled to multivariate statistical analysis, which were then correlated to ABTS•+ radical capture (2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays in order to measure the antioxidant capacity. A total of 24 bioactive compounds were identified, including high amounts of quercetin-O-hexoside, astilbin, and apigenin, which were correlated to three clones (BRS 235, BRS 237, and BRS 238). On the other hand, the BRS 236 clone presented high contents of ascorbic acid, iso-ascorbic acid, citric acid, procyanidin B trimer, rutin, phenolic compounds, and antioxidant activity. These compounds were additionally found to be strongly associated with the antioxidant capacity of unripe acerola fruits. Therefore, the present study revealed that BRS 236 is a promising clone as an antioxidant source to be used as a functional food or ingredient. use 235Apodi, 235Apodi Apodi 235 Apodi, 235-Apodi 236Cereja, 236Cereja Cereja Cereja, 236-Cereja 237Roxinha, 237Roxinha Roxinha 237 Roxinha, 237-Roxinha 238Frutacor Frutacor 238 ultrahigh ultra chromatographyquadrupole chromatography quadrupole timeofflight time flight UPLCQTOF/MSMS UPLCQTOFMSMS UPLC QTOF/MS MS QTOF (UPLC-QTOF/MS-MS analysis ABTS ABTS• 2,2azinobis3ethylbenzothiazoline6sulfonic 22azinobis3ethylbenzothiazoline6sulfonic azinobisethylbenzothiazolinesulfonic 2,2 azino bis 3 ethylbenzothiazoline 6 sulfonic 2 acid FRAP (FRAP identified quercetinOhexoside, quercetinOhexoside quercetin O hexoside, hexoside quercetin-O-hexoside astilbin apigenin 238. . 238) hand 23 isoascorbic iso trimer rutin activity fruits Therefore ingredient UPLCQTOF MSMS QTOFMS 2azinobis3ethylbenzothiazoline6sulfonic azinobis 22 2,

Abstract This study aimed to understand the perception of young adults and middle-aged adults about functional foods and to relate it to socioeconomic, health, and consumption factors. The study participants, both male and female adults (n = 522), completed two questionnaires. The first questionnaire addressed socioeconomic and health aspects, which were designed by the researchers. The second questionnaire focused on attitudes related to the consumption of functional foods, evaluating consumers' perceived needs, benefits, confidence, and safety. The results demonstrated that adults hold a positive perception of functional foods, acknowledging their benefits and the need for consumption. However, there is some skepticism regarding the credibility of functional food claims. Income and education level appear to be factors that influence adults' perception of functional food consumption. Middle-aged adults (45 to 65 years) tend to perceive functional foods as medications, while young adults (18 to 44 years) who consider nutritional quality important when choosing food for consumption tend to have a better perception of functional foods. The recognition of the benefits and the need for functional foods indicates that this market remains promising. However, measures to instill greater consumer confidence should be adopted. middleaged middle aged participants n 522, 522 , 522) questionnaires aspects researchers consumers needs safety However claims Middleaged Middle 45 (4 6 years medications 18 (1 4 promising adopted 52 ( 1 5

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi conhecer a percepção de adultos jovens e de adultos de meia-idade acerca dos alimentos funcionais (AF), e sua relação com determinantes socioeconômicos, de saúde e de consumo. Os participantes do estudo, adultos de ambos os sexos (n = 522), responderam a dois questionários: um continha perguntas relacionadas a aspectos socioeconômicos e de saúde, elaborado pelos pesquisadores, e outro, sobre atitudes relacionadas ao consumo de AF, que avaliava a necessidade, os benefícios, a confiança e a segurança percebidos pelos consumidores. Os resultados demonstraram que há uma percepção positiva acerca dos AF pelos adultos e estes reconhecem seus benefícios e a necessidade de consumi-los, porém há uma desconfiança em relação à credibilidade das alegações funcionais. A renda e a escolaridade parecem ser fatores que interferem na percepção do consumo dos AF por adultos. Adultos de meia idade (45 a 65 anos) tendem a perceber os AF como medicamentos e os adultos jovens (18 a 44 anos), que consideram importante a qualidade nutricional no momento da escolha do alimento para consumo, tendem a ter uma percepção melhor dos AF. O reconhecimento dos benefícios e da necessidade dos AF demonstra que este mercado continua promissor, porém medidas que estimulem maior confiança dos consumidores devem ser adotadas. meiaidade , (AF) n 522, 522 522) questionários pesquisadores outro consumilos, consumilos consumi los, los consumi-los 45 (4 6 anos 18 (1 4 anos, promissor adotadas (AF 52 ( 1 5

Abstract Chocolate is a delectable sweet enjoyed all over the world. Made from dried cocoa beans, through the process of roasting, grinding, and conching, chocolate is known for its taste and flavor. Although the sugar content of chocolate is limiting its reach to the health-conscious population, chocolate is endowed with immense medicinal benefits. The major ingredient of chocolate, cocoa, Theobroma cacao L., is a plant known as the “Food of the Gods” due to the abundance of polyphenols present in it. Processing conditions and parameters affect the polyphenol stability. Roasting process conditions affect the polyphenols of cocoa beans, especially the epicatechin and procyanidin. The variety of cocoa beans, quality and presence of fat, sugar, emulsifiers, drying time, and temperature are the important influencing factors affecting the polyphenol content of chocolate. Chocolate possesses antioxidant, antidiabetic, anticancer, anti–inflammatory, and good mood food properties but it is also shown to be prebiotic and helps in alleviating the symptoms of Alzheimer’s and heart disease. The functional properties of chocolate can be enhanced by the addition of certain foods/ functional ingredients. This paper reviews the role of chocolate as a functional food, the effect of processing on polyphenols, and the recent developments in improving the functional properties of chocolates through fortification. world beans roasting grinding conching flavor healthconscious health conscious population benefits L L. Food Gods stability procyanidin fat emulsifiers time antioxidant antidiabetic anticancer antiinflammatory anti inflammatory anti–inflammatory Alzheimers Alzheimer s disease foods ingredients fortification

Abstract Tea is identified as the second most consumed drink in the world, and its frequent intake is related to several benefits to human health, considering its antimutagenic, anticarcinogenic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antihistamine, diuretic, calming, and above all, antioxidant effects. These effects are often associated with the action of the phenolic compounds contained in these infusions. In Brazil, among the most consumed infusions are the teas of chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.), lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus (D.C.) Stapf), lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.), anise (Pimpinella anisum L.), yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis A. St.-Hil), peppermint (Mentha piperita L.), and green/black tea (Camellia sinensis L.). Therefore, said popularity is the reason why the mentioned species were chosen to be evaluated on inflammatory enzymes. The activity of phospholipases A2 was reduced by more than 25% after treatment with black tea and yerba mate. The most significant inhibition of protease activity was observed after incubation with black tea (40.74%), green tea (31.48%) and yerba mate (25.93%). Infusions of black and green tea reduced hemolysis in semisolid and liquid media, and for the latter, reductions of up to 50% of hemolytic activity were observed, indicating an anti-inflammatory potential of the samples. Plasma incubations with green tea, black tea and lemon balm and subsequent addition of venom (1:10 ratio; tea:PBS, v:v) prolonged the coagulation time of citrated plasma by approximately twice compared to the positive control. All controls with pure tea had a thrombolytic character, in higher proportions than the venom control, especially chamomile (273.55% dissolution). Phenolic compounds derived from phenolic acids, flavonoids, and tannins are identified as the main agents that promote the biological effects observed in this study. This is mainly due to their anti-catalytic properties exerted on inflammatory enzymes and as chelating agents of enzymatic co-factors. The evaluated teas showed potential for nutraceutical use, thus pointing to the possibility of use as an adjuvant in the treatment of diseases linked to hemostasis. world health antimutagenic anticarcinogenic antimicrobial antiinflammatory, antiinflammatory anti inflammatory, antihistamine diuretic calming all Brazil Matricaria L., L L. , L.) Cymbopogon D.C. DC D C (D.C. Stapf, Stapf Stapf) Melissa Pimpinella Ilex A St.Hil, StHil St. Hil St St.-Hil) Mentha greenblack Camellia L.. . Therefore 25 40.74%, 4074 40.74% 40 74 (40.74%) 31.48% 3148 31 48 (31.48% 25.93%. 2593 25.93% 93 (25.93%) media latter 50 samples 110 1 10 (1:1 ratio teaPBS, teaPBS PBS, PBS tea:PBS vv v v:v control character 273.55% 27355 273 55 (273.55 dissolution. dissolution dissolution) acids flavonoids study anticatalytic catalytic cofactors. cofactors co factors. factors co-factors hemostasis D.C (D.C St.Hil St.-Hil 2 407 40.74 4 7 (40.74% 31.48 314 3 (31.48 259 25.93 9 (25.93% 5 11 (1: 273.55 2735 27 (273.5 40.7 (40.74 31.4 (31.4 25.9 (25.93 (1 273.5 (273. 40. (40.7 31. (31. 25. (25.9 ( 273. (273 (40. (31 (25. (27 (40 (3 (25 (2 (4