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

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.