Turunçgillerde Bulunan Fenolik Bileşikler

Abstract

Citrus fruits contain many components that are beneficial for health, including minerals, vitamins, and dietary fibers. They are also the main sources of many bioactive compounds with disease-preventing properties, such as flavonoids and limonoids. Flavonoids are a group of pigments found in plants and are responsible for the coloration of flowers and fruits. Flavonoids are found in fruits and vegetables in our diet. The inedible parts of citrus fruits, such as the peel, juice, and pulp, are as rich in phenolic compounds as the edible parts of the fruit. Citrus peels and seeds are rich in phenolic acids and flavonoids, and the peels contain more flavonoids than the seeds. The waste parts of citrus fruits such as peel and seed are particularly rich in flavonoid and phenolic compounds, and these compounds have important health properties. Recycling of citrus waste, which is produced in millions of tons worldwide, has significant potential in terms of environment and economy. In particular, recycling of peels contributes to the prevention of chronic diseases as a natural antioxidant source, while extending the shelf life by reducing oxidation in foods. The phenolic and flavonoid content of citrus waste varies depending on the species, growing conditions and harvest time. The use of citrus waste in the food, cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries not only reduces environmental pollution, but also enables the development of value-added products in terms of health and nutrition.