Fruit Smoothies Enriched in a Honeysuckle Berry Extract—An Innovative Product with Health-Promoting Properties

Abstract

Smoothies are claimed to be an effective way of promoting fruit and vegetable consumption. They are a rich source of bioactive compounds and provide numerous health benefits. Strawberries and apples are among the most popular smoothie ingredients. Additionally, chokeberry presents antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Another interesting fruit with a wide range of health benefits is the honeysuckle berry. In this study, a dry extract from the mentioned fruit was combined to produce a smoothie enriched in bioactive compounds of unique health-promoting properties. The smoothies were rich in anthocyanins, flavonols, phenolic acids, flavan-3-ols and iridoids. Smoothies with higher concentrations of a polyphenol-iridoid honeysuckle berry extract (0.50%) were the products of a greater content of bioactive compounds and higher antioxidant activity compared to those with no extract or a lower amount (0.25%). However, the sensory evaluation showed that, according to customers, the least attractive smoothies are those with the greatest amounts of the honeysuckle berry extract. Therefore, the correct balance between taste and bioactivity should be sought in order to obtain an innovative product showing characteristics of functional food.