Cereal nutraceutical properties

The new trend in cereal breeding programs is to select genotypes with special uses and with better nutraceutical properties. These new genotypes are rich in carotenes (P-carotenes, lutein, zeaxanthin), phytosterols, phenolics, anthocyanins, tannins, and other antioxidants. These value-added grains will gradually gain market because of their proven health benefits. 

What is the major difference between carotenes and xanthophylls Investigate what kind of xanthophylls can be found in cereal grains and their nutraceutical properties. 

Lutein A xanthophyll or hydroxylated Uposoluble carotenoid (C40H56O2) found in cereal grains with proven antioxidant and nutraceutical properties. Lutein is one of the two carotenoids contained within the retina of the eye, spedficaUy associated with the macula. Therefore, it is used with zeaxanthin to prevent age-related macular degeneration (AMD), especially in geriatric people. Lutein has... 

The term nutraceutical, coined in 1989 by Stephen DeFelice, arises from combination of two words, nutrition and pharmaceutical, and defines food or food products that can provide medical and health benefits, including prevention and treatment of disease. Whole grains, beans, and herbs are known to include natural products with therapeutic potential, but fruits and vegetables are their main natural source. Edible mushrooms have also been reported to have medicinal properties [8,9]. Fortified foods, dietary supplements, herbal products, genetically engineered foods, and processed products such as cereals, soups, and beverages are considered nutraceuticals, even when in most cases bioactive components have not been scientifically standardized [10]. 

Practically all commercial cereals have special types with unique properties for different uses. These specialty grains have been selected throughout the years because they have unique uses in the industry, impart different culinary properties to processed foods, and/or have an improved nutritional or nutraceutical value. Gaierally, these grains have a greater economic value in the market and are not considered as commodities. 

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