Sapotaceae Family Fruits from Central America: Botanical, Phytochemical and Nutraceutical Insights—A Review

TL;DR

This review explores the botanical, chemical, and health benefits of Sapotaceae family fruits in Central America, highlighting their potential for functional foods and medicine.

Contribution

The paper provides a comprehensive review of the phytochemical and nutraceutical potential of underutilized Sapotaceae fruits in Central America.

Findings

Sapotaceae fruits contain secondary metabolites like phenolics and carotenoids linked to health benefits.

Traditional uses and recent scientific studies suggest potential for functional products and therapeutic applications.

The review identifies opportunities for sustainable use and development of these species.

Abstract

The Sapotaceae family includes various fruit species of ecological, economic, and nutritional importance, among which Pouteria sapota (mamey sapote), Manilkara zapota (zapote chico), Pouteria campechiana (canistel), and Pouteria viridis (zapote verde) stand out, widely distributed throughout Mesoamerica. These species have traditionally been used as a source of food, natural medicine, and other products of cultural value. In recent decades, there has been growing scientific interest in studying their phytochemical composition, which has led to the identification of important secondary metabolites such as phenolic compounds, carotenoids, flavonoids, and triterpenes, associated with beneficial health effects. This article summarizes and analyzes the available information on their diversity, traditional use, chemical composition, and biological activities. It also highlights research opportunities aimed at the development of functional products, therapeutic applications, and nutraceuticals, as well as the sustainable use of these species.

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