Determination of the biochemical propertties of some dried red fruits

In the 21st century, the rapidly growing problem of environmental pollution is having increasingly negative effects on human health in all countries worldwide. Additionally, because of fast-paced living conditions, more industrially processed convenience foods are being offered to people. Individuals seeking protection against health problems that may arise due to environmental pollution and excessive consumption of packaged convenience foods are increasingly showing interest in natural foods every day. Recent scientific studies have focused on the positive effects of antioxidant compounds and phenolic substances found in plants on healthy living. In this thesis, the total phenolic content and antioxidant capacities of red fruits that can be consumed in dried form, specifically black mulberry (Morus nigra L.), cornelian cherry (Cornus mas L.), and rosehip (Rosa canina L.), are evaluated to determine their fundamental biochemical properties. The phenolic compounds and antioxidants contained in these red fruits make significant contributions to their health benefits and are known for their roles in combating oxidative stress. Wild black mulberries, cornelian cherries, and rosehips, which were obtained from the villages of Gümüşhacıköy, Merzifon, Amasya, Taşova, and Erbaa located in the Middle Black Sea Transition Zone and dried under normal atmospheric conditions, were used as experimental materials. The total phenolic compounds, total flavonoid content, and total antioxidant capacity of the samples were determined using various spectrophotometric methods. The antioxidant capacity was evaluated by the DPPH free radical scavenging assay, and the results were expressed as the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value. Analyses of dried red fruit samples collected from four different locations showed that total phenolic compound in black mulberries ranged from 1906,73 to 2474,71 μg GAE g-1 and total flavonoid content ranged from 164,61 to 202,75 μg QE g-1. Similarly, in cornelian cherries, total phenolic compound ranged from 1597,58 to 1752,48 μg GAE g-1 and total flavonoid content varied between 122,02 and 171,88 μg QE g-1. In rosehips, total phenolic compound ranged from 1869,48 to 2332,88 μg GAE g-1 and total flavonoid content varied between 142,56 and 199,61 μg QE g-1. The IC50 values for DPPH radical scavenging activity were determined to be in the ranges of 51,08-103,21 μg mL-1 for black mulberry, 110,64-180,20 μg mL-1 for cornelian cherry, and 100,01-162,09 μg mL -1 for rosehip samples. These findings highlight that dried black mulberry, cornelian cherry, and rosehip fruits are rich sources of bioactive compounds. Moreover, this research highlights the nutritional potential of dried red fruits for human health due to their strong antioxidant properties, providing valuable data for both consumers and the food industry.