Abstract:
Utilizing major waste products from the food industry can indeed have a significant environmental impact while simultaneously benefiting public health. Date pits, which are a byproduct of the date fruit industry, have been proven to have a high nutritional profile. The edible part of the date fruit contains a good amount of dietary fiber and sugars, along with small amounts of ash, protein, fat, and polyphenols. On the other hand, the inedible part, which is the pit, is rich in fibers (insoluble), minerals (potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, sodium, calcium, and iron), vitamins, lipids, and protein. The dietary fiber and phenolic compounds found in date pits have therapeutic implications for conditions such as diabetes, hyperlipidemia, obesity, and may exhibit a protective effect against hypertension, coronary heart disease, cholesterol, colorectal and prostate cancers, and intestinal disorders. These compounds, including phenolic acids and flavonoids, possess anti-carcinogenic, antibacterial, anti-mutagenic, and anti-inflammatory properties. The main fatty acid found in date pits is oleic acid, followed by Lauric acid, and Glutamic acid in lesser amounts. Date pits also aid in the treatment of kidney stones and bladder diseases. They contain several medicinal compounds, one of which acts like corticosteroids and is used to treat kidney and bladder disorders as well as infectious diseases. Additionally, date pits possess antioxidant and free scavenging capabilities. Using date pit powder as a fortifying agent in the food industry serves two important purposes: reducing waste and improving public health. By utilizing this waste product, we not only minimize environmental impact but also enhance food security and contribute to the betterment of mankind. In conclusion, the utilization of date pits as a source of fortification in the food industry is a commendable approach. It helps reduce waste, improve public health, and enhance food security while capitalizing on the high nutritional value and therapeutic properties of date pits.
Page(s):
380-380
DOI:
DOI not available
Published:
Journal: Abstract Book on International Conference on Food and Applied Sciences (ICFAS-23) 3-5 August 23, Volume: 0, Issue: 0, Year: 2023
Keywords:
antioxidants
,
Flavonoids
,
antibacterial
,
phenolic acids
,
anticarcinogenic
,
Datepit