# Bioactive Compound Profiling and Antioxidant Activity of Phytelephas tenuicaulis and Other Amazonian Fruits

## TL;DR

This study analyzed the bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity of four Amazonian fruits, highlighting their potential for use in food, medicine, and cosmetics.

## Contribution

The study provides new data on the bioactive profiles and antioxidant properties of under-researched Amazonian fruits.

## Key findings

- Tintiuk showed high ascorbic acid and soluble solids content.
- Apai had significant quercetin and strong antioxidant activity.
- Brown moriche contained high levels of β-carotene and malic acid.

## Abstract

The Amazon region is home to many plant species, many of which have not been studied. The objective was to evaluate the physicochemical properties, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant activity of Phytelephas tenuicalis (tintiuk), Grias neuberthii (apai), Euterpe oleracea (acai), and Mauritia flexuosa (brown moriche). Physicochemical analyses were carried out on fresh fruit from local markets. Bioactive compounds (carotenoids, phenolics, vitamin C, and organic acids) were quantified in the freeze-dried pulp by rapid-resolution liquid chromatography (RRLC), and antioxidant activity was determined by ABTS and DPPH assays. The results showed high soluble solids (10.7 °Brix) and ascorbic acid (67.3 mg/100 g DW) in tintiuk; β-carotene (63.4 mg/100 g DW) and malic acid (19.6 g/100 g DW) in brown moriche; quercetin (944.2 mg/100 g DW) and antioxidant activity by ABTS (6.7 mmol ET/100 g DW) in apai; and citric acid (2.1 g/100 g DW) in acai. These results indicate interesting bioactive properties that could increase the consumption of these fruits nationally and internationally, benefiting local farmers and stimulating the development of new products in functional food, medicine, and cosmetics.