Fruits native to South America: a narrative review of biological properties and chemical profile

Abstract

Fruit native to South America have been recognized by their relevant levels of phytochemicals with bioactivities that impart human health benefits beyond nutrition, although many of them remain unexplored. The objective of the present study was to compile the recent literature regarding the phytochemical profile and biological properties of fruits native to South America. Over 600 fruits were analyzed, and those with the most substantial scientific literature regarding their phytochemical profile and antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities were selected. Based on the reviewed literature, among the 40 selected fruits analyzed, antioxidant activity was reported for 38 fruits, antimicrobial activity for 31, and anti-inflammatory activity for 30. This data allows for a comparative analysis of the fruits' bioactive potential. However, factors like extraction methods, harvest time and location, and cultivar variations were found to have a significant impact on fruit bioactivity. Common limitations to properly investigate the phytochemical composition of fruits grown in the wild are access to sufficient material, reproducibility of results due to variations on chemical composition, and use of accurate techniques, such as mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance. Clinical trials should be encouraged to confirm findings of fruits’ antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities observed in vitro. Furthermore, extract refinement prior to antimicrobial analysis remains challenging to reach trusting results. This review provides helpful information to guide further studies on these fruits and strategic public policies concerning the development of sustainable supply chains that respect biodiversity in South America.