October 13, 2025 | Trends in Food Science & Technology |
The study conducted by Kunming University of Science and Technology, China, reviewed recent progress on rambutan peel polyphenols (RPPs), highlighting their extraction methods, biological activities, and potential applications in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Rambutan peel, often discarded as waste, is a rich source of bioactive compounds with notable antioxidant and antidiabetic properties, making it a promising candidate for developing natural health products.
The review emphasized that RPPs are mainly composed of ellagitannins, with geraniin identified as the predominant active compound. Advances in green and efficient extraction techniques have improved RPP recovery and sustainability. Mechanistically, RPPs demonstrate strong antioxidant activity by stabilizing oxidizable molecules and modulating oxidative stress. They also contribute to glucose regulation by inhibiting digestive enzymes, preventing advanced glycation end product formation, and enhancing glycolipid metabolism. Moreover, RPPs have been found to promote gut health by influencing microbial balance and stimulating beneficial metabolites.
The study also summarized patent developments related to extraction methods and industrial uses, reflecting growing commercial interest. Overall, RPPs exhibit multifunctional health benefits and industrial potential. Future research directions include optimizing extraction processes, exploring molecular mechanisms, and understanding gut microbiota interactions to support the broader application of RPPs as natural functional ingredients.
