Javier Añorve-Morga

Microextraction method of medium and long chain fatty acids from milk

The aim of this research was to develop a method for microextraction and quantification of long and medium chain fatty acids from milk. The proposed method was carried out on three steps: (1) lipids extraction from 10 μL of whole or skimmed milk containing omega-3 fatty acids (FAs) during 12, 24, 48, 72 and 96 h, in 2 mL chloroform: methanol mixture (2:1); (2) acid methylation of FAs; and (3) quantification of FAs methyl esters by gas chromatography. Using this method, the percentage recovery of FAs was higher (67% for whole and 85% for skimmed milk) compared with AOAC method 905.02 recovery (49% and 83%, respectively). Good reproducibility and repeatability (<3%) were obtained. The method developed can be useful for researching and in routine quality control. Additionally, it is simpler, faster and cheaper than the reference procedure since it requires minimum sample and solvents volume as well as fewer steps.

Peptide separation of commercial fermented milk during refrigerated storage

Milk is an important source of bioactive compounds. Many of these compounds are released during fermentation and refrigerated storage. The aim of this study was to determine the release of peptides by lactic acid bacteria in commercial fermented milk during refrigerated storage. The size and profile of peptides were analyzed by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and sizeexclusion HPLC. During electrophoresis, it was observed that the peptides were released from caseins, whereas β-lactoglobulin was the whey protein with the highest degradation. HPLC analysis confirmed the pattern of peptide formation observed in electrophoresis. Two fractions lower than 2 kDa with aromatic amino acids in their structure were separated. These results were consistent with those reported for structures of peptides with antihypertensive activity. Therefore, the presence of aromatic amino acids in the peptide fractions obtained increases the likelihood of finding peptides with such activity in refrigerated commercial fermented milk. In conclusion, during cold storage, peptides with different molecular weights are released and accumulated. This could be due to the action of proteinases and peptidases of the proteolytic system in lactic acid bacteria.

Organic Acids, Antioxidants, and Dietary Fiber of Mexican Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus) Residues cv. Tupy

Blackberry fruit processing generates residues comprised of peel, seeds, and pulp that are abundant in flavonoids, colorants, and organic acids. The objective of this study was to determine the organic acids, antioxidants, and dietary fiber content of blackberry residues and compare antioxidants and dietary fiber content of a prune-based commercial product. The ABTS, DPPH, and FRAP methodologies were used for antioxidant capacity. The blackberry residues exhibited a high amount of malic acid (5706.37 mg/100 g db), phenols (4016.43 mg GAE/100 g db), and anthocyanins content (364.53 mg/100 g db) compared with the commercial product. These compounds contributed to the antioxidant capacity (by ABTS) of both products but were 20 times higher in blackberry residues. The fruit residues were able to reduce iron (by FRAP) 4.4 times compared to the prune-based product. Total dietary fiber (44.26%) and functional properties as water retention capacity (2.94 g/g), swelling capacity (5.00 mL/g), and fat absorption capacity (1.98 mL/g) of blackberry residues were significantly higher than those of the commercial sample. The results demonstrated that, due to its antioxidant compounds and functional properties, the blackberry residue can be considered a source of components with potential benefit to human health.

Evaluation of Consumption of Poultry Products Enriched with Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Anthropometric, Biochemical, and Cardiovascular Parameters

An alternative for prevention and treatment for cardiovascular diseases (CVD) is increasing the intake of bioactive compounds as omega-3. However, several countries as Mexico do not consume regularly foods with high content of omega-3, mainly fish products due to cultural, social, and economic factors. Therefore, the addition of omega-3 in other food sources could contribute to completing the requirements established of these fatty acids. To evaluate the effect of the consumption of poultry products supplemented with omega-3 in healthy population, a phase 1, double blind randomized, controlled parallel-group trial was carried out. After 14 weeks, the supplemented group had an increase in HDL, reducing the atherogenic index. The supplementation with omega-3 in poultry products could contribute to a cardioprotective effect. It is necessary to complete studies with a higher evaluation period to determine the improvement in anthropometric and cardiovascular parameters.