February 14, 2022 | Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition |
Conducted by Universidade de Vigo, Spain, and the West Bengal State Council of Technical Education, India, this study provides a comprehensive overview of minor tropical fruits, focusing on their nutritional composition, phytochemical content, health benefits, traditional uses, and potential role in food fortification. Tropical fruits, grown in hot and humid regions between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn, encompass a wide array of species found across Asia, Africa, Central America, South America, the Caribbean, and Oceania.
Despite their classification as "minor," these fruits contribute significantly to global commercialization, with an annual growth rate of 3.8%. The study covers 26 minor tropical fruits, including kiwifruit, rambutan, mangosteen, and jackfruit, among others. By examining their nutritional and phytochemical profiles, the research sheds light on the potential health benefits of these fruits and their traditional uses.
Furthermore, the study discusses the role of minor tropical fruits in food fortification, highlighting their potential to enhance the nutritional value of various food products. Overall, this work provides valuable insights into the lesser-known but nutritionally rich fruits from tropical regions.