Taxonomic, physicochemical, phenolic and antioxidant comparison in species of high Andean wild fruits: Rubus and Hesperomeles

Abstract

Currently, humans are taking better care of their health. It is known that fruit consumption prevents degenerative diseases such as cancer and diabetes. On the other hand, the high Andean biodiversity is rich in various resources that have been undervalued up to now. In the present study, the botanical characterization, physical and chemical properties, phenolic compounds, and antioxidant capacity were compared in four non-climacteric high Andean wild fruits of the species Rubus (black siraca and red siraca) and Hesperomeles (pacra and capachu), collected in the Peru province of Andahuaylas, Apurimac region, between 3600 and 3900 m.a.s.l. The taxonomic identification was performed according to the catalog of angiosperms and gymnosperms by geographical location. Polyphenols were determined by the spectrophotometric method based on the use of the Folin–Ciocalteu reagent, and the antioxidant capacity by the DPPH reagent discoloration method. Data in triplicate were analyzed by a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and a multiple-range test of least significant difference (LSD). The results showed significant differences (p < 0.05) in all properties studied. The maturity index and phenolic content directly affected the antioxidant capacity. The four wild fruits studied presented high values of polyphenols and antioxidant activity. Therefore, they should be considered in genetic improvement and field extension programs to promote their consumption, which would encourage healthy and nutritious eating.