Physicochemical characterization of a crude anthocyanin extract from the fruits of Jussara (Euterpe edulis Martius): Potential for food and pharmaceutical applications

In the present research effort, production of a crude anthocyanin extract from the fruits of jussara (Euterpe edulis Martius) was pursued. The physico-chemical characteristics of the crude anthocyanin extracts were evaluated via Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometry, X-ray diffraction, X-ray fluorescence, computed tomography via X-ray transmission, UV-Vis spectrophotometric scanning, differential scanning calorimetry, antimicrobial activity, anthocyanin quantification, total phenolic content, thin layer chromatography for sugars and pigments, free radical 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity and antioxidant activity via the molybdenum phosphate complex. The results gathered suggest that the crude anthocyanin extracts had both obvious antioxidant activity and radical scavenging effects with the DPPH assay, and light antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, further suggesting that this crude pigment extract might be a valuable addition for either food or pharmaceutical applications. (author)