Functional foods – Page 4

A Review of Novel Antioxidant Ergothioneine: Biosynthesis Pathways, Production, Function and Food Applications

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Ergothioneine is a powerful natural antioxidant found mainly in mushrooms that protects cells from damage and may help prevent diseases like Alzheimer’s and heart disease. Currently, producing ergothioneine from mushrooms is expensive and slow, but scientists have developed faster fermentation methods using engineered microbes that could make it cheaper and more available. This compound can be added to foods and supplements to boost health benefits, and researchers are exploring its use beyond seafood to other food products like meat and baked goods.

Advances in Bioprocess Engineering for Optimising Chlorella vulgaris Fermentation: Biotechnological Innovations and Applications

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Chlorella vulgaris is a nutrient-rich microalga gaining popularity in health supplements, functional foods, and sustainable energy production. Scientists are using advanced genetic engineering techniques, special fermentation methods, and innovative bioreactor designs to increase the production of beneficial compounds like proteins and antioxidants. These improvements make Chlorella more valuable for creating health-promoting foods, medicines, and biofuels while keeping production costs low and environmentally sustainable.

Probiotic-fortified Solanum lycopersicum (tomato) juice: free or encapsulated Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus delbrueckii

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This study developed a probiotic-enriched tomato juice using beneficial bacteria wrapped in protective capsules. The encapsulated version maintained better bacterial survival, taste, and health benefits compared to unprotected bacteria during the 28-day storage period. This creates a promising non-dairy functional beverage option for health-conscious consumers seeking improved gut health and antioxidant benefits.

Nettle (Urtica cannabina L.) polysaccharides as a novel dietary supplement: enhancing systemic antioxidant status via modulation of the gut–liver axis

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This study found that nettle polysaccharides, especially at lower doses, act as a natural supplement that boosts the body’s antioxidant defenses. The supplement works by promoting beneficial bacteria in the gut, which produce helpful metabolites that signal to the liver to enhance protective antioxidant enzymes. These findings suggest nettle polysaccharides could be a promising natural ingredient for health-conscious food products aimed at maintaining metabolic wellness.

Regulatory effects of Lycium Barbarum polysaccharides on immune function and their application prospects

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Lycium barbarum, a plant used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2000 years, contains special compounds called polysaccharides that boost the immune system. These compounds work by activating immune cells like macrophages and T cells, and can help fight infections and reduce inflammation. Research shows they may also help with conditions like arthritis, cancer, and gut health by acting as a natural prebiotic that promotes beneficial bacteria.

Bioactive Peptides from Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) as Modulators of the Gut Microbiome: A Scoping Review of Preclinical Evidence

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This review examines how quinoa and its protein-derived peptides can improve gut health by changing the balance of bacteria in the digestive system. Research shows that quinoa helps boost beneficial bacteria, increases diversity of microbial communities, and promotes production of butyrate, a beneficial compound that supports intestinal health. Different disease conditions show specific improvements, such as reduced harmful bacteria in colitis and better metabolic balance in obesity, suggesting quinoa could be tailored for personalized health interventions.

Health benefits of fish and fish by-products—a nutritional and functional perspective

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Fish is an excellent food that provides many important nutrients like protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins that help protect our hearts, brains, and overall health. Different fish species offer various health benefits including protecting against heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and brain disorders. However, some fish can contain harmful contaminants like mercury, so choosing safer options like salmon and cod is important for children and pregnant women.

Medicinal Mushrooms: Their Bioactive Components, Nutritional Value and Application in Functional Food Production—A Review

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Medicinal mushrooms like Reishi, Lion’s Mane, and Shiitake contain powerful compounds that may help fight cancer, boost immunity, and reduce inflammation. These mushrooms are low in calories and can be added to everyday foods like bread, pasta, and meat products to boost their nutritional value. While promising, more research is needed to confirm how much people should consume and whether they interact safely with medications.

Whey Proteins and Bioactive Peptides: Advances in Production, Selection and Bioactivity Profiling

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Whey, a liquid byproduct from cheese-making that was once considered waste, contains valuable proteins that can be broken down into smaller bioactive peptides. These peptides have numerous health benefits including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, and can be used in functional foods and medicines. Researchers are developing advanced techniques to extract and produce these peptides more efficiently, and using computer models to predict which peptides will have specific health benefits.

The Co-Evolution of Markets and Regulation in the Japanese Functional Food Industry: Balancing Risk and Benefit

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This research examines how Japan regulates functional foods – products designed to promote health beyond basic nutrition. The study shows that food regulations have evolved alongside industry growth, trying to balance protecting consumers from unsafe products while allowing companies to innovate and make health claims. Using a framework that examines both safety concerns and consumer benefit information, the authors trace how Japan’s regulatory system changed from the 1960s to today, showing how regulations respond to industry needs and safety incidents.

Research Topic: Functional foods