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Analysis of Fatty Acid Content and Composition in Microalgae
Published on: October 1, 2013
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Exploratory data of the microalgae compounds for food purposes
Tatiele C do Nascimento1, Pricila P Nass1, Andrêssa S Fernandes1
1Department of Food Technology and Science, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil.
Data in Brief
|February 15, 2020
Summary
Scenedesmus obliquus and Phormidium autumnale microalgae biomass were analyzed for functional food potential. Scenedesmus obliquus showed superior fatty acid profiles and antioxidant capacity, warranting further in vivo study.
Area of Science:
- Food Science
- Biotechnology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Microalgae biomass, specifically Scenedesmus obliquus and Phormidium autumnale, is explored for its potential as an unconventional functional food source.
- Understanding the chemical composition, including fatty acids and volatile compounds, is crucial for assessing nutritional value and safety.
- Antioxidant properties are key indicators of health benefits, necessitating the evaluation of various extracts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the chemical composition, fatty acid profiles, volatile compounds, and carotenoids of Scenedesmus obliquus and Phormidium autumnale.
- To assess the antioxidant capacity (reducing capacity and ORAC) of different extracts from these microalgae.
- To compare the functional food potential of Scenedesmus obliquus and Phormidium autumnale.
Main Methods:
- Biomass analysis for chemical composition, fatty acids, volatile compounds, and carotenoids.
- Extraction of aqueous, lipophilic, and carotenoid fractions.
- Measurement of antioxidant capacity using reducing capacity (RC) and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assays.
- Statistical analysis using the t-test (p < 0.05).
Main Results:
- Both microalgae species contain similar compounds, but Scenedesmus obliquus exhibited a statistically significant lower saturated fatty acid (STF) content and higher mono (MUFA) and polyunsaturated (PUFA) fatty acid content.
- Scenedesmus obliquus demonstrated higher antioxidant potential in its acetone extract and isolated carotenoids.
- Phormidium autumnale aqueous extract showed high reducing capacity (RC) and ORAC values.
Conclusions:
- Scenedesmus obliquus presents a promising profile for functional food applications due to its favorable fatty acid composition and antioxidant properties.
- Phormidium autumnale also possesses notable antioxidant capacity, particularly in its aqueous extract.
- The distinct characteristics of Scenedesmus obliquus warrant further investigation in an in vivo experimental model.
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