Massey Research Online - Browsing by Author "Rashidinejad A"

Browsing by Author "Rashidinejad A"

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Advancements in Non-Thermal Processing Technologies for Enhancing Safety and Quality of Infant and Baby Food Products: A Review
(MDPI (Basel, Switzerland), 2024-09) Pasdar N; Mostashari P; Greiner R; Khelfa A; Rashidinejad A; Eshpari H; Vale JM; Gharibzahedi SMT; Roohinejad S; Moreno DA; Baenas N
Breast milk is the main source of nutrition during early life, but both infant formulas (Ifs; up to 12 months) and baby foods (BFs; up to 3 years) are also important for providing essential nutrients. The infant food industry rigorously controls for potential physical, biological, and chemical hazards. Although thermal treatments are commonly used to ensure food safety in IFs and BFs, they can negatively affect sensory qualities, reduce thermosensitive nutrients, and lead to chemical contaminant formation. To address these challenges, non-thermal processing technologies such as high-pressure processing, pulsed electric fields, radio frequency, and ultrasound offer efficient pathogen destruction similar to traditional thermal methods, while reducing the production of key process-induced toxicants such as furan and 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furfural (HMF). These alternative thermal processes aim to overcome the drawbacks of traditional methods while retaining their advantages. This review paper highlights the growing global demand for healthy, sustainable foods, driving food manufacturers to adopt innovative and efficient processing techniques for both IFs and BFs. Based on various studies reviewed for this work, the application of these novel technologies appears to reduce thermal processing intensity, resulting in products with enhanced sensory properties, comparable shelf life, and improved visual appeal compared to conventionally processed products.
Assessment of Various Food Proteins as Structural Materials for Delivery of Hydrophobic Polyphenols Using a Novel Co-Precipitation Method
(MDPI (Basel, Switzerland), 2023-04-19) Rashidinejad A; Nieuwkoop M; Singh H; Jameson GB; Papetti A
In this study, sodium caseinate (NaCas), soy protein isolate (SPI), and whey protein isolate (WPI) were used as structural materials for the delivery of rutin, naringenin, curcumin, hesperidin, and catechin. For each polyphenol, the protein solution was brought to alkaline pH, and then the polyphenol and trehalose (as a cryo-protectant) were added. The mixtures were later acidified, and the co-precipitated products were lyophilized. Regardless of the type of protein used, the co-precipitation method exhibited relatively high entrapment efficiency and loading capacity for all five polyphenols. Several structural changes were seen in the scanning electron micrographs of all polyphenol-protein co-precipitates. This included a significant decrease in the crystallinity of the polyphenols, which was confirmed by X-ray diffraction analysis, where amorphous structures of rutin, naringenin, curcumin, hesperidin, and catechin were revealed after the treatment. Both the dispersibility and solubility of the lyophilized powders in water were improved dramatically (in some cases, >10-fold) after the treatment, with further improvements observed in these properties for the powders containing trehalose. Depending on the chemical structure and hydrophobicity of the tested polyphenols, there were differences observed in the degree and extent of the effect of the protein on different properties of the polyphenols. Overall, the findings of this study demonstrated that NaCas, WPI, and SPI can be used for the development of an efficient delivery system for hydrophobic polyphenols, which in turn can be incorporated into various functional foods or used as supplements in the nutraceutical industry.
Biopolymer-polyphenol conjugates: Novel multifunctional materials for active packaging
(Elsevier B V, 2024-11) Sahraeian S; Abdollahi B; Rashidinejad A
The development of natural active packaging materials and coatings presents a promising alternative to petroleum-based packaging solutions. These materials are engineered by incorporating functional ingredients with preservative capabilities. Concurrently, research has highlighted the diverse physicochemical, functional, and health-promoting properties of protein-polyphenol, polysaccharide-polyphenol, and protein-polysaccharide-polyphenol conjugates within various food formulations. However, a critical gap exists regarding the exploration of these biopolymers as active packaging materials. In contrast to conventional approaches for developing active packaging materials, this review presents a novel perspective by focusing on biopolymer-polyphenol conjugates. In this work, we delve into the realm of active packaging materials and coatings constructed from these conjugates, highlighting their potential as multifunctional active components in food packaging and preservation. This review comprehensively investigates the physicochemical properties, functionalities, and health-promoting activities associated with biopolymer-polyphenol conjugates. Their emulsification, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities, coupled with enhancements in mechanical strength and permeability properties, contribute to their multifunctional nature. Furthermore, we explore the potential advantages and limitations of utilizing these conjugates in active packaging applications. Finally, the review concludes by proposing crucial research avenues for further exploration of biopolymer-polyphenol conjugates within the domain of active food packaging.
Comparative efficiency of extraction techniques for bioactive compounds in Cinnamomum zeylanicum
(Elsevier Ltd, 2025-11-30) Culas MS; Kaur L; Popovich DG; Rashidinejad A
Cinnamomum zeylanicum is a plant well-known for its antioxidant-rich bioactives. This study assessed its total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid contents (TFC), antioxidant activity, and key bioactives (cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, and cinnamic acid) using two extraction methods: accelerated solvent extraction (ASE) and ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE), with solvents including ethanol, methanol, acetone, and water. ASE with 50 % ethanol yielded the highest TPC (6.83 ± 0.31 mg GAE/g), TFC (0.50 ± 0.01 mg QE/g), cinnamaldehyde (19.33 ± 0.002 mg/g), eugenol (10.57 ± 0.03 mg/g), and cinnamic acid (0.18 ± 0.004 mg/g), making it superior to UAE. However, UAE with 50 % ethanol showed the strongest antioxidant activity via ABTS (IC50 = 3.26 μg/mL), while antioxidant activity showed no significant differences. A strong correlation (R = 0.81) between TPC and TFC in ASE extracts indicated that flavonoids are major contributors. This study addresses a research gap by systematically comparing UAE and ASE for extracting key bioactives from Cinnamomum zeylanicum in optimising its bioactive recovery for application in functional foods.
Delivery of Catechins from Green Tea Waste in Single- and Double-Layer Liposomes via Their Incorporation into a Functional Green Kiwifruit Juice
(MDPI (Basel, Switzerland), 2023-01-06) Athirojthanakij W; Rashidinejad A; Tzen JTC
Globally, about one million tonnes of tea products, which contain high concentrations of catechins and their derivatives, are wasted annually. Therefore, green tea waste catechins (GTWCs) are worth extracting, processing, protection, and delivery to the human body. In this study, GTWCs were extracted using a green method and then encapsulated in both single- (SLLs) and double-layer liposomes (DLLs). The encapsulated extracts were subsequently incorporated into a fresh green kiwifruit juice. SLLs and DLLs containing GTWCs had a size of about 180 and 430 nm with a zeta potential of -35 and +25 mV, respectively. Electron microscopy illustrated the separation of the SLLs and fibre in kiwifruit juice and attraction of the DLLs to this fibre. Liposomal GTWCs were effectively maintained in the kiwifruit juice during the 28 days of storage (4 °C), demonstrating the effectiveness of this delivery system for high-value bioactives (i.e., catechins) from such a by-product (i.e., green tea waste).
Development of a validated efficient HPLC-DAD analysis for assessing polyphenol transformation during black tea processing
(Elsevier Inc, 2025-12-01) Muthulingam P; Popovich DG; Nimal Punyasiri PA; Nanayakkara CM; Mesarich CH; Rashidinejad A
Tea (Camellia sinensis) is valued for its polyphenolic compounds, which define its sensory and health attributes. Accurate quantification across processing stages is hindered by analytical and extraction challenges. We developed and validated a rapid high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD) method for simultaneous analysis of 12 key constituents - gallic acid, theobromine, caffeine, (+)-catechin (C), (-)-epicatechin (EC), (-)-epigallocatechin (EGC), (-)-epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), (-)-epicatechin gallate (ECG), theaflavin (TF), theaflavin-3-gallate (TF3G), theaflavin-3′-gallate (TF3’G), theaflavin-3,3′-digallate (TF3–3’G), in green and black tea. The method achieved superior linearity (r² > 0.9995), high sensitivity (LOD: 0.03–1.68 µg/mL), strong precision (RSD < 4.68 %), and high recovery, while also resolving co-elution with a 40-min runtime. Extraction was optimized using ultrasonication with 70 % methanol, which outperformed hot water and ISO-standard methods. Applied to black tea processing, the method revealed a 79.1 % reduction in catechins, post-rolling theaflavin peaks, and dynamic fluctuations in gallic acid, caffeine, and theobromine. These changes were associated with enzymatic oxidation, leaching, and cultivar effects. The validated HPLC-DAD method provides a robust tool for tea polyphenol profiling and enables improved understanding of processing-induced transformations. It holds potential for use in quality control, nutritional labeling, and functional food research in tea and other polyphenol-rich systems.
Enhanced properties of non-starch polysaccharide and protein hydrocolloids through plasma treatment: A review
(Elsevier B V, 2023-09-30) Sahraeian S; Rashidinejad A; Niakousari M
Hydrocolloids are important ingredients in food formulations and their modification can lead to novel ingredients with unique functionalities beyond their nutritional value. Cold plasma is a promising technology for the modification of food biopolymers due to its non-toxic and eco-friendly nature. This review discusses the recent published studies on the effects of cold plasma treatment on non-starch hydrocolloids and their derivatives. It covers the common phenomena that occur during plasma treatment, including ionization, etching effect, surface modification, and ashing effect, and how they contribute to various changes in food biopolymers. The effects of plasma treatment on important properties such as color, crystallinity, chemical structure, rheological behavior, and thermal properties of non-starch hydrocolloids and their derivatives are also discussed. In addition, this review highlights the potential of cold plasma treatment to enhance the functionality of food biopolymers and improve the quality of food products. The mechanisms underlying the effects of plasma treatment on food biopolymers, which can be useful for future research in this area, are also discussed. Overall, this review paper presents a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge in the field of cold plasma treatment of non-starch hydrocolloids and their derivatives and highlights the areas that require further investigation.
Exploring efficient extraction methods: Bioactive compounds and antioxidant properties from New Zealand damson plums
(Elsevier Ltd, 2023-10) Xia P; Ahmmed MK; Rashidinejad A
The study determined the best extraction method for phenolic compounds (rutin, catechin, epicatechin, naringenin, neochlorogenic acid, and rosmarinic acid) in the New Zealand damson plums. Accelerated solvent extraction (ASE) using ethanol and water was used to evaluate the solvent efficacy. Further comparisons were made among ASE, ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), enzyme-assisted extraction (EAE), and a combined method (E + UAE) using water as the solvent. The findings showed that ASE for 40 min was the most effective method for extracting phenolic compounds (1.76 mg gallic acid equivalent/g) compared to other methods (UAE = 1.17, EAE = 1.3, and E + UAE = 1.45 mg/g). The ASE method also resulted in an extract with a higher antioxidant activity than other methods. The extraction time over 40 min decreased the yield regardless of the solvent used. Therefore, the ASE extraction method for 40 min is recommended as the best method for extraction of phenolic compounds from the New Zealand damson plums.
Fabrication and characterization of active gelatin-based films integrated with nanocellulose-stabilized Pickering emulsion containing Oliveria Decumbens Vent. essential oil
(Elsevier Ltd, 2024-10-01) Fahim H; Bagheri H; Motamedzadegan A; Razi SM; Rashidinejad A
Stabilizing essential oils (EOs) within biodegradable matrices to create homogeneous and stable films with desirable properties is challenging due to the hydrophobic nature of EOs, which hinders their uniform infusion into the matrix. In this study, we investigated the feasibility of creating active films made of gelatin, infused with nanocellulose-stabilized Pickering emulsion (PE) containing Oliveria Decumbens Vent. essential oil (OEO). The Pickering emulsion effectively stabilized the 50% v/v of OEO, which was subsequently incorporated into a gelatin film at 0, 3, 5, 7, and 9% v/v, to produce active films. FTIR data showed that the OEO-PE was physically trapped in the film matrix through hydrogen bonds, which was also verified by SEM micrographs. The addition of OEO-PE notably changed the films' mechanical properties, leading to reduced tensile strength and enhanced elongation (P < 0.05) with no significant impact on their water vapor permeability. The incorporation of OEO endowed the film matrix with high antioxidant and antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus. Thermal analysis using differential scanning calorimetry showed a 36–171 °C endothermic peak in all films, due to water evaporation and melting. The gelatin film containing 9% OEO-PE exhibited superior physical properties, enhanced water resistance, and excellent antibacterial and antioxidant activity.
Flavonoid delivery system
Rashidinejad A; Harjinder S; Simon L; Alejandra A-F; Abby T; Zhigao N
The invention relates to a flavonoid delivery system comprising a co-precipitate of a hydrophobic flavonoid and a protein. The flavonoid delivery system comprises a high ratio of flavonoid to protein, allowing food products to be fortified with relatively large amounts of flavonoid without compromising the sensory properties of the food product.
Gymnema lactiferum: A Review of Its Traditional Applications, Phytochemical Constituents, and Biological Properties
(Wiley Periodicals LLC, 2024-10-16) Weerasinghe DMKP; Brough L; Everett DW; Rashidinejad A
Humanity has a longstanding reliance on natural plants for medicinal purposes, and Gymnema lactiferum (G. lactiferum) has emerged as a medicinal plant with deep-rooted traditional usage. Throughout history, this plant has been an integral part of traditional medical systems, demonstrating diverse therapeutic effects. Notably, among these effects is its ability to decrease blood glucose concentration in diabetic patients, impart cooling effects, serve as an anabolic and rehydrating agent, stimulate spermiogenesis, and exhibit wormicidal properties. Furthermore, G. lactiferum has been used in treating conditions such as hemorrhoids cancers, anorexia, and as a cardiac stimulant. The primary objective of this review is to comprehensively gather and critically assess research findings regarding the medicinal properties of G. lactiferum, specifically emphasizing the bioactive compounds responsible for these properties. Previous studies have documented the presence of various phytochemicals in G. lactiferum, which are associated with some biological activities, including antioxidative, anti-hyperglycemic, cholesterol-regulating, and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, this review explores potential future applications for this plant. Beyond its medicinal significance, extracts derived from G. lactiferum demonstrate promise for future nutritional applications. This review highlights the potential use of G. lactiferum as an herbal medicine by critically assessing research on its medicinal value.
Marine Fish-Derived Lysophosphatidylcholine: Properties, Extraction, Quantification, and Brain Health Application
(MDPI (Basel, Switzerland), 2023-03-30) Ahmmed MK; Hachem M; Ahmmed F; Rashidinejad A; Oz F; Bekhit AA; Carne A; Bekhit AE-DA; Jembrek MJ; Šegota S
Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids esterified in lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC-omega-3) are the most bioavailable omega-3 fatty acid form and are considered important for brain health. Lysophosphatidylcholine is a hydrolyzed phospholipid that is generated from the action of either phospholipase PLA1 or PLA2. There are two types of LPC; 1-LPC (where the omega-3 fatty acid at the sn-2 position is acylated) and 2-LPC (where the omega-3 fatty acid at the sn-1 position is acylated). The 2-LPC type is more highly bioavailable to the brain than the 1-LPC type. Given the biological and health aspects of LPC types, it is important to understand the structure, properties, extraction, quantification, functional role, and effect of the processing of LPC. This review examines various aspects involved in the extraction, characterization, and quantification of LPC. Further, the effects of processing methods on LPC and the potential biological roles of LPC in health and wellbeing are discussed. DHA-rich-LysoPLs, including LPC, can be enzymatically produced using lipases and phospholipases from wide microbial strains, and the highest yields were obtained by Lipozyme RM-IM®, Lipozyme TL-IM®, and Novozym 435®. Terrestrial-based phospholipids generally contain lower levels of long-chain omega-3 PUFAs, and therefore, they are considered less effective in providing the same health benefits as marine-based LPC. Processing (e.g., thermal, fermentation, and freezing) reduces the PL in fish. LPC containing omega-3 PUFA, mainly DHA (C22:6 omega-3) and eicosapentaenoic acid EPA (C20:5 omega-3) play important role in brain development and neuronal cell growth. Additionally, they have been implicated in supporting treatment programs for depression and Alzheimer's. These activities appear to be facilitated by the acute function of a major facilitator superfamily domain-containing protein 2 (Mfsd2a), expressed in BBB endothelium, as a chief transporter for LPC-DHA uptake to the brain. LPC-based delivery systems also provide the opportunity to improve the properties of some bioactive compounds during storage and absorption. Overall, LPCs have great potential for improving brain health, but their safety and potentially negative effects should also be taken into consideration.
Nanodelivery systems of thymoquinone for improving its bioavailability and efficiency in the food and biomedical applications
(Elsevier B V, 2025-10-15) Shaddel R; Rashidinejad A; Karimkhani MM; Tarhan O; Jafari SM
Thymoquinone (TQ), a hydrophobic bioactive constituent of Nigella sativa seeds, has garnered attention for its potential in treating various ailments due to its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. However, TQ's hydrophobicity, instability in varying pH environments, photosensitivity, rapid hepatic metabolism, and low bioavailability present major challenges for its application in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical formulations. Nanotechnology offers innovative nanocarriers that can overcome these limitations. Notable among these are lipid-based nanocarriers (e.g., nano-liposomes, nano-emulsions, niosomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, and nanostructured lipid carriers), biopolymeric systems (e.g., nano-hydrogels, nanofibers, nanotubes, and cyclodextrin inclusion complexes), and inorganic nanocarriers. These delivery systems are designed to enhance TQ's solubility, protect it from degradation, and improve its bioavailability and therapeutic performance. Despite numerous advances, the clinical and industrial translation of these nano-delivery systems remains limited, primarily due to scalability issues, regulatory constraints, and a lack of standardized evaluation protocols for food and biomedical use. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of these nanocarriers, emphasizing their mechanisms for TQ encapsulation, controlled release, and bioaccessibility enhancement. It also highlights current limitations and outlines future directions for their development. Unlike previous reviews, this work offers a comparative evaluation of nanocarrier systems for both food and biomedical applications, addressing their effectiveness, limitations, and readiness for real-world translation. The key takeaway is that among the various approaches, lipid-based and biopolymeric nanocarriers have demonstrated the greatest potential for enhancing TQ delivery, particularly in oral and functional food formulations, as well as targeted cancer therapy, due to their biocompatibility, scalability, and effective release profiles.
Novel rutin-casein composites as functional dry ingredients for the delivery of high concentration of rutin in dairy beverages: in vitro bioaccessibility, cytotoxicity, absorption, and intestinal barrier integrity
(Elsevier Ltd, 2026-02-01) Ahmad R; Singh A; Purba A; Rashidinejad A
Rutin, a flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, has poor solubility (highly hydrophobic) and is unstable during gastrointestinal digestion, limiting its use in functional foods. To overcome this challenge, we developed two rutin-caseinate composites (RCC1 and RCC2) as delivery vehicles for incorporation into functional foods/beverages. While both systems deliver rutin at high concentration, they differ in terms of methodology, loading capacity, and applications. The gastrointestinal stability, bioaccessibility, and antioxidant potential of these delivery systems, both alone and incorporated into a functional dairy beverage (flavoured milk), were assessed. We also examined the cytotoxicity, absorption, and intestinal barrier integrity of rutin using an intestinal epithelial cell model. The bioaccessibility of rutin from RCC1 and RCC2 was found to be 63 % and 45 %, respectively, compared to untreated rutin (UR), which was undetectable due to precipitation. Additionally, RCC2 exhibited superior intestinal barrier integrity with a trans-epithelial electrical resistance (TEER) value of 1655 Ω/cm² for 24 h, outperforming both RCC1 (1384 Ω/cm²) and UR (915 Ω/cm²). Intracellular antioxidant activity was significantly higher for both composites in terms of lower relative fluorescent units (RFU); 44 RFU for RCC1 and 42 RFU for RCC2, compared to 63 RFU for UR, demonstrating their enhanced protective effects. Caco-2 cell viability of the composite samples was higher, with no cytotoxicity observed compared to UR, confirming their safety. When incorporated into milk, both systems improved rutin bioaccessibility, with RCC1 showing a stronger antioxidant response (87 RFU) than RCC2 (100 RFU) and untreated rutin (140 RFU) during extended incubation. These findings suggest that both RCC1 and RCC2 are stable, soluble, and safe for physiological systems. Their incorporation into dairy matrices enhances rutin bioaccessibility and antioxidant potential, making them a promising approach for functional foods development.
Optimizing catechin extraction from green tea waste: Comparative analysis of hot water, ultrasound-assisted, and ethanol methods for enhanced antioxidant recovery
(Wiley Periodicals LLC, 2024-04-08) Athirojthanakij W; Rashidinejad A
This study aimed to develop an efficient method for the extraction of bioactive compounds from green tea waste (GTW) toward its potential application in the food industry. GTW, which is generated during the harvesting and processing of green tea products, accounts for a global annual loss of nearly 1 million tonnes. Notably, this waste is rich in polyphenolic compounds, particularly catechins, which are renowned for their significant health benefits. We assessed the optimization of catechin extraction from GTW employing hot water extraction (HWE), ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), and ethanol extraction (EthE) techniques at different sample-to-solvent ratios (1:100, 1:50, and 1:20 w/v). The extraction temperature was set at 80°C for both HWE and UAE; however, for EthE, the temperature was slightly lower at 70°C, adhering to the boiling point of ethanol. High-performance liquid chromatography was used to determine the extraction efficiency by quantifying various catechins (i.e., catechin, epicatechin [EC], epicatechin gallate [ECG], epigallocatechin [EGC], and epigallocatechin gallate [EGCG]). In terms of the concentration for individual catechins, EC was found to be the highest concentration detected, ranging from 30.58 ± 1.17 to 37.95 ± 0.84 mg/L in all extraction techniques and ratios of solvents, followed by EGCG (9.71 ± 1.40–20.99 ± 1.11 mg/L), EGC + C (7.95 ± 0.66–12.58 ± 0.56 mg/L), and ECG (1.85 ± 0.71–6.05 ± 0.06 mg/L). The findings of DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl) free radical assay illustrated that HWE demonstrated the highest extraction efficiency at all ratios, ranging from 61.41 ± 1.00 to 70.36 ± 1.47 mg/L. The 1:50 ratio exhibited the highest extraction yield (25.98% ± 0.75%) compared to UAE (24.16% ± 0.95%) and EthE (22.59% ± 0.26%). Moreover, this method of extraction (i.e., HWE) produced the highest total catechins and %DPPH reduction. Consequently, HWE was the most efficient method for extracting catechins from GTW, underscoring its potential for valorizing waste within the food manufacturing industry.
Phenolic compounds from macadamia husk: An updated focused review of extraction methodologies and antioxidant activities
(Elsevier Ltd on behalf of the Institution of Chemical Engineers, 2024-12) Ahmed MF; Popovich DG; Whitby CP; Rashidinejad A
This review explores the potential of agri-food waste materials, with a particular focus on macadamia nut by-products. Industrial processing of macadamia nuts yields a significant volume of by-products, including green husk and woody shell. Recent research has highlighted these by-products as readily available, cost-effective rich sources of phenolic compounds, renowned for their potent antioxidant and antibacterial properties. This paper emphasizes the importance of selecting an optimal extraction method to fully harness the bioactive potential of these phenolic compounds. In this work, we provide a comprehensive overview of conventional and advanced extraction techniques that are used to extract phenolic compounds from macadamia by-products, with a particular focus on the methods applied to macadamia green husk. Among the various techniques, it appears that ultrasound-assisted extraction, especially when combined with aqueous organic solvents, is more efficient than other methods for this purpose. This review also addresses the challenges in phenolic compound recovery, primarily due to the lack of a standardized extraction process. This often results in the extensive use of extraction solvents to achieve an extract that is rich in phenolic compounds. Overall, this research offers a valuable understanding of the most effective methods for the extraction and recovery of phenolic compounds from macadamia by-products and discusses the potential for scaling up these extraction processes. Hence, it can serve as a useful resource for researchers and industry professionals interested in sustainable and efficient utilization of by-products of the nut industry.
Potential benefits of Moringa peregrina defatted seed: Effect of processing on nutritional and anti-nutritional properties, antioxidant capacity, in vitro digestibility of protein and starch, and inhibition of α-glucosidase and α-amylase enzymes
(Elsevier Ltd, 2022-10) Sardabi F; Azizi MH; Gavlighi HA; Rashidinejad A
This study aimed to eliminate the bitter taste of Moringa peregrina press cake (MPC) as a byproduct of oil extraction (by employing safe and conventional methods) and evaluating its potential for formulating value-added food products. The characteristics (nutritional and anti-nutritional properties, monosaccharide composition, in vitro starch and protein digestibility, antioxidant capacity, and in vitro α-glucosidase, and α-amylase inhibitory activity) of raw, debittered (soaked in distilled water and boiled), and roasted (after debitterization) MPC flours were determined. Debitterization significantly increased total protein, fiber, arabinose, xylose, antioxidant activity, in vitro protein digestibility, and α-amylase inhibitory activity, whereas it decreased total starch, resistant starch, starch digestibility, ash, glucose, phytic acid, tannin, and oxalate contents. Fiber content, protein digestibility, α-amylase inhibitory activity, and antioxidant activity were further increased as the result of roasting. MPC and its products could inhibit α-amylase activity, with the highest inhibition belonging to roasted debittered samples. The current study is the first to report on the comprehensive nutritional and bio- and physicochemical aspects of Moringa peregrina press cake and the effect of treatments on improving its sensorial, nutritional, and health-promoting properties. Therefore, these results indicate the potential of treated MPC as a novel natural functional ingredient for various food formulations.
Recent advances in encapsulation techniques for cinnamon bioactive compounds: A review on stability, effectiveness, and potential applications
(Elsevier Ltd, 2024-02) Culas MS; Popovich DG; Rashidinejad A
Cinnamon is renowned worldwide for its beneficial health-promoting properties. However, its application in the food industry faces significant challenges due to chemical instability, leading to the degradation of its bioactive compounds, as well as the development of undesirable sensory characteristics caused by the precipitation of salivary proteins by the bioactives. To address these issues, encapsulation methods (both micro and nano) have been developed and studied extensively. This review focuses on recent advances in such encapsulation techniques used to safeguard and deliver cinnamon bioactives, with special emphasis on the spray drying method. The methods employed to evaluate the physicochemical, rheological, and sensorial properties of nano and microparticles are also comprehensively reviewed. The review addresses the challenges associated with encapsulation, including encapsulation efficiency, long-term stability, and release kinetics, and proposes potential strategies to overcome these challenges. Furthermore, the paper presents future perspectives and research directions in cinnamon encapsulation, shedding light on novel materials, advanced characterization techniques, and hybrid encapsulation systems. Overall, encapsulation demonstrates the potential to preserve and harness the therapeutic benefits of cinnamon's bioactive compounds for a wide array of food, pharmaceutical, and nutraceutical applications. With ongoing research and advancements in encapsulation techniques, cinnamon bioactives can be effectively utilized to develop functional and health-enhancing products, catering to the diverse needs of consumers worldwide.
Recent advances in the conjugation approaches for enhancing the bioavailability of polyphenols
(Elsevier Ltd, 2024-01) Sahraeian S; Rashidinejad A; Golmakani M-T
In recent years, the consumption of functional foods containing health-beneficial ingredients has become increasingly popular. Polyphenols are among the most important functional and bioactive molecules found in a variety of fresh produce and food products. However, the limited solubility of most polyphenols in water can significantly affect their bioavailability, thereby reducing their potential health benefits. To overcome this limitation, various approaches have been explored, including molecular enhancers, nanoparticles, encapsulation systems, and conjugation methods. In this review, we focus on recent advances in conjugation methods for enhancing the bioavailability of polyphenols. We provide a concise overview of the types of polyphenols and bioavailability determination methods and, subsequently, discuss the concept of conjugation methods, including different synthesizing methods, confirmation procedures, and the effects of conjugation on polysaccharides and polyphenols. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive update on recent advances in conjugation methods that can be used to improve the bioavailability of polyphenols and highlights the potential of these approaches to enhance the health benefits of polyphenol-rich foods.
Targeted dairy fortification: leveraging bioactive compounds to enhance nutritional value
(Taylor and Francis Group, 2025-06-30) Bagheri H; Akhavan-Mahdavi S; Sarabi-Aghdam V; Mirarab Razi S; Singh Beniwal A; Rashidinejad A
Dairy products, rich in nutrients, are crucial for human health and disease prevention. Recent trends focus on enhancing their nutritional value by fortifying them with bioactive compounds from plant and animal sources. Scientific evidence suggests these compounds can improve public health by potentially treating and preventing diseases, including cancer. This systematic review discusses advances in dairy product fortification with health-promoting compounds, highlighting their role in correcting nutritional deficiencies and reducing chronic disease risk. Innovative delivery systems are being developed to improve the stability and functionality of these compounds in fortified dairy products. Despite challenges in maintaining the physical, textural, and sensory qualities of dairy products, fortification is a promising public health strategy. The review calls for interdisciplinary research to better understand the bioavailability, effectiveness, and long-term health impacts of bioactive compounds in dairy foods. Such research could inform best practices and policy recommendations. Using dairy products as carriers for bioactive compounds can significantly improve nutritional status and reduce the global burden of chronic diseases, making it a strategic approach to public health nutrition. This review cautiously evaluates current evidence, particularly regarding chronic disease prevention, and emphasizes the need for further research on specific populations, such as children and the elderly.

Browsing by Author "Rashidinejad A"

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