Factors of variation and the techniques for improving extraction and bioaccessibility of carob polyphenol: a review

Abstract

The carob tree is a common tree throughout the world. It has received great attention due to its potent biological effects and diverse industrial applications resulting from its richness in phytochemicals, particularly polyphenols. The polyphenol content, the phenolic composition, and the antioxidant activity of carob were studied with variable results. Several factors are involved in this variability, such as gender, variety, cultivar, ripening stage, environmental conditions, and extraction techniques. Also, the bioaccessibility of carob polyphenols is strongly affected by several factors, such as the phenolic fraction, food matrix, structure of compounds, and particle size. As a result, the purpose of this paper is to discuss the various factors of variation as well as the extraction and encapsulation techniques used to improve their recovery and bioaccessibility.