Characterization of five Chilean agribusiness by-products and their potential use as food supplements

Abstract

Chilean agribusiness generates large quantities of by-products and they have been little studied. According to the literature they represent important sources of sugar, protein, lipid, micronutrient, fiber, and others that have a broad field of action. In this work, by-products (white and red grape seeds, peach stones, avocado seeds, olive pomace, and corn cob) of Chilean agribusiness are characterized chemically with a view to their functional and nutritional potential. They are analyzed following standardized methodology which revealed that by-products are found to be a suitable source of protein (0.59-10.00 % on DW), fiber (33.85-71.93 % on DW), lipid (0.61-14.4 % on DW)), organic matter (77.34-99.87 % on DW), inulin (8.3-33 mg fructose/g dry sample), and a wide range of essential metals. They are rich in K, Ca, and Mg. Moreover, they have very good antioxidant capacity (FRAP, and DPPH), and total phenolics and flavonoids contents.  In conclusion, Chilean agribusiness by-products are attractive potential sources of food products, which could be used for nutritional purposes, and for the development of technologies.