A FRUIT-BASED FUNCTIONAL BEVERAGE DESIGNED TO REDUCE THE RISK OF CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE

Abstract

A functional beverage, designed to be cardio-protective, was formulated, using a blend of juices of cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon L), blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium Aiton.), apple (Malus domestica L.), ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) and selected cardio-protective ingredients. Membrane filtration enhanced the antioxidant properties of the fruit juices. Ultrasound-assisted water extract of ginger showed potential antioxidant activities. The selected fruit juice combination, 50% blueberry; 12.5% cranberry; and 37.5% apple, showed higher consumer acceptability. Incorporation of functional ingredients at 10% RDI and 2% (v/v) ginger extract did not affect the sensory properties of the beverage. Phenolic concentration, FRAP value, and % LDL oxidation inhibition of the formulation were 1024 mg GAE/L, 3114 mg TE/L and 45%, respectively. Diet supplementation with the formulation resulted in lower serum and liver lipid levels in spontaneously hypotensive rats. Blood pressure was reduced by the formulation after two but not four weeks supplementation.