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Phenolic rich 100% grape juice has been associated with many health benefits, but its place in dietary guidance is controversial relative to whole fruit. Direct comparisons of phenolic profiles and bioavailability between these food forms are needed. Phenolic bioaccessibility and metabolism from Concord (CG) and Niagara (NG) grapes and corresponding 100% juices were investigated using an

Protein-polyphenol aggregate particles concurrently fortify a functional food product with healthy dietary proteins and concentrated polyphenols. However, what impact does ingestion of aggregate particles have on ultimate health relevance of either the polyphenolic molecules in the matrix or the protein molecules? Because human health benefits are contingent on bioavailability after ingestion, the fate of these molecules during transit in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) will dictate their utility as functional food ingredients. This brief review explores diverse applications of protein-polyphenol particles in the food industry and the bioaccessibility of both bioactive polyphenolic compounds and edible proteins. Evidence to date suggests that complexation of phytoactive polyphenolics effectively enhances their health-relevant impacts, specifically because the phytoactives are protected in the protein matrix during transit in the GIT, allowing intact, non-degraded molecules to reach the colon for catabolism at the gut microbiome level, a prerequisite to realize the health benefits of these active compounds.

The food matrix is a factor affecting digestion rate of macronutrients, like starch. Sorghum protein networks surrounding starch have been associated with its comparatively low starch digestibility, though their formation mechanism is unclear. Since sorghums contain 3-deoxyanthocyanidins with redox property that could promote sulfhydryl-disulfide interchanges, we hypothesized that added apigeninidin (a 3-deoxyanthocyanidin) will form matrices in a non-matrix-forming cereal (corn). A model system using ovalbumin determined apigeninidin as a polymerizing agent. Starch digestion and microstructure of cereal porridges from yellow corn with and without added apigeninidin, commercial blue corn, and white sorghum were examined. Apigeninidin addition promoted protein matrices in yellow corn and attenuated initial starch digestion rate that was related to matrix formation rather than α-amylase inhibition. Blue corn with 3-deoxyanthocyanidins formed protein matrices with similar lower overall starch digestibility as sorghum. Promoting matrix formation in cereal-based foods with 3-deoxyanthocyanidins may be a strategy to modulate starch digestion rate.

Oats have a long history of use as human food and animal feed. From its origins in the Fertile Crescent, the oat has adapted to a wide range of climatic conditions and geographic regions. Its unique macro-, micro-, and phytonutrient composition, high nutritional value, and relatively low agricultural input requirements makes oats unique among cereal crops. The health benefits of the oats are becoming well established. While the connection between oat β-glucan fiber in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and controlling glycemia have been unequivocally established, other potential benefits including modulation of intestinal microbiota and inflammation continue to be explored. Advances in food technology are continuing to expand the diversity of oat-based foods, creating opportunities to deliver the health benefits of oats to a larger segment of the population.