Nutraceutical Properties in Organic Strawberries from South Italy

Given the significant increase in consumer interest in organic food products, there is a need to determine to what extent there is a scientific basis for claims made for organic products. Apart from the sensory quality and food safety, there is a need to assess the nutritional value of organic vs. conventional (or integrated) food. Measurement of antioxidant activity using biologically relevant assays is important in the screening of fruits for potential health benefits. ORAC assay has been used in the assessment of antioxidant activity of strawberry extracts, from organically and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strawberry plants, grown in the highly suited area of Basilicata (south Italy). Results on two genotypes ('Candonga' and 'Ventana') indicated that strawberries organically cultivated had statistically significant higher antioxidant activity than the IPM strawberries. Particularly, in the methanolic extract of organic 'Candonga', at red stage of ripening, the ORAC value was 31.5% higher than the IPM one. Further investigations on bioactive compound composition (namely anthocyanins and other flavonoids) are needed to identify the specific contribution to antioxidant capacity of organic strawberries.