Development of a database for non-nutritive antioxidants in Australian-grown horticultural commodities

This cross-sectional study aimed to measure total polyphenols, total flavonoids, total anthocyanins, lutein and lycopene in Australian-grown horticultural commodities.

Primary samples (n = 822) of Australian-grown fruit, vegetables and nuts were purchased during peak growing season in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth between June 2021 and May 2022. Samples were prepared (e.g., peeled, trimmed, de-seeded) as they would usually be consumed. Raw, composite samples were analysed using spectrometry (polyphenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins), normal phase high-performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet-visible detection (lutein) and reverse phase high-performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet-visible detection (lycopene).

A nationally representative dataset of two types of antioxidants (total polyphenols and flavonoids) in 86 types of fresh fruit (n = 38), dried fruit (n = 6), fresh vegetables (n = 38) and nuts (n = 4) was produced. Total anthocyanins, lutein and lycopene were measured in a subset of foods.

The new data reflect current growing practices, varieties, climate, and analytical methods and provide information that will assist consumer education on sources of dietary antioxidants.