Chapter 28 - Nutritional Composition of the Prickly Pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) Fruit

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Abstract

The genus Opuntia, commonly known as prickly pear cactus, includes species that produce nutritious fruits and young, edible cladodes (stem pads, also called joints), which are used as a vegetable. The prickly pear fruit is known as tuna, Indian fig, Christian fig, and tuna de Castilla. Mexico is considered one of the major areas of genetic diversity of Opuntia, and Opuntia ficus-indica is one of the most agro-economically important cactus crop species and is cultivated in arid and semiarid regions of the world for its fruits. The spineless forms correspond to horticultural varieties. The prickly pear fruit is divided into three components that may be exploited commercially: seeds, peel, and pulp. This fruit contains approximately 85% water, 15% sugar, 0.3% ash, and less than 1% protein. The flesh is a good source of minerals and several types of amino acids (alanine, arginine, and asparagine). Important vitamins include vitamin C (ascorbic acid), E, K, and beta-carotenes. Flavonoids, effective antioxidants, are another important constituent. The betalain pigments are responsible for the colors of the fruit and also have antioxidant properties. The general distribution of nutrients and antioxidants in the fruit is an indication that the ingestion of the whole fruit is more beneficial from a health perspective because more potentially nutraceutical active ingredients are absorbed and used by our bodies. Considering the chemical components of the prickly pear cactus, its nutritional capacity is relatively modest and should be used as a dietary complement. In view of the popular and increasing trend in the demand for nutraceuticals and increased desire for natural ingredients and food products promoting health, the multiple functional properties of cactus pear in conjunction with its antioxidant properties fit well with this trend. Furthermore, the prickly pear fruit can be considered as “the bridge of life” because it is the only food and water resource for animals during the long dry seasons in the deserts.

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