What if the humblest part of the cactus were actually one of the most nutritious and functional parts of the entire plant?
A study in the Canary Islands has shown that the pads (cladodes) of the RED FIG® ( Opuntia dillenii ) have a nutritional profile rich in fiber, minerals such as manganese and chromium, vitamin C, and phenolic compounds , positioning them as a food with high functional and preventive potential.
What was analyzed?
Twenty samples of O. dillenii pads were compared with twenty samples of O. ficus-indica , cultivated in Tenerife (north and south zones), evaluating:
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Morphological parameters (weight, length, thickness)
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Nutritional composition (moisture, fiber, protein, ash, pH, acidity, Brix degrees)
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Minerals (K, Ca, Mg, P, Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn, Cr)
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Antioxidants (ascorbic acid, phenolic compounds)
Key Nutritional Results
The leaves of the TINTO FIG® tree presented:
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More total and insoluble fiber (3.73 g and 3.03 g/100 g)
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Higher acidity and higher pH
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Higher vitamin C content (3.14 mg/100 g)
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More sodium (9.10 mg/100 g) and copper (93 µg/100 g)
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Lower humidity (92.0%) than O. ficus-indica , which may favor preservation
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Lower concentration of phenolic compounds than O. ficus-indica , but still relevant as functional antioxidants.
Provides fiber, minerals and metabolic health
A 150g serving of FIG TINTO® stems provides:
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22% of the recommended daily fiber intake (FESNAD, 2010)
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28% of manganese (Mn) and 80% of chromium (Cr) for men (up to 112% and 100% for women)
These minerals are associated with:
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Protection against oxidative damage
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Improved insulin sensitivity and glycemic regulation
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Balanced lipid metabolism
Differences according to species and growing area
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The cactus pads from northern Tenerife were richer in fiber, phosphorus, and vitamin C , while those from the south had more phenols and iron.
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Those from O. ficus-indica had more phenolic compounds , but less total fiber
This confirms that the environment and the type of plant significantly influence its functional profile , and that Opuntia dillenii has its own differentiating characteristics that should be taken advantage of.
How is this knowledge applied today?
At Tuno Canarias, we work with the leaves of the TINTO FIG® as a source of fiber, antioxidants, and functional minerals , incorporating them into formulas designed to improve digestive, metabolic, and cellular health. Some examples of practical applications include:
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Digestive Creamer – functional beverage with prebiotic fiber and RED FIG® extract, for microbiota, digestion and detox
( https://tunocanarias.com/products/higo-tinto-digestive ) -
BOOST with FIG TINTO® – an energy blend with turmeric and ginger to activate cellular metabolism
( https://tunocanarias.com/products/higo-tinto-boost ) -
HIGO TINTO® Family Max – alternative to cocoa powder with fiber and betalains, sugar-free
( https://tunocanarias.com/products/higo-tinto-family-max ) -
100% Organic Tinto Fig Powder® – Versatile and functional for capsules, smoothies or cooking
( https://tunocanarias.com/products/higo-tinto-eco )
Conclusion
Far from being an agricultural byproduct, the stem of the FIGO TINTO® tree is a source of dietary fiber, key minerals, and functional bioactive compounds . This landmark study from the University of La Laguna demonstrates that its properties are unique and deserve their place in modern nutrition as a plant-based ingredient with an impact on health and sustainability .
From the Canary Islands fields to the laboratory and the table, the leaves of the HIGO TINTO® demonstrate that what is essential is sometimes... in the simplest things.
Reference
Pérez Méndez et al. (2015)
Physicochemical characterization of cactus pads from Opuntia dillenii and Opuntia ficus indica
Food Chemistry , https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2015.05.011:contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
