What happens to the antioxidants in FIGO TINTO® once they reach your stomach?
A study by the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) and the University of the Basque Country has precisely analyzed the active compounds of Opuntia stricta var. dillenii (TINTO FIG®) and determined which ones survive the digestive process and how many are actually absorbed by the body. The results are promising for cellular health, the prevention of chronic diseases, and the development of high-value-added functional foods. .
What did they investigate?
Sixty bioactive compounds were identified and quantified, including:
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25 phenolic acids
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12 flavonoids
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3 ellagic acids
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20 betalains (such as betanin and neobetanin)
They were analyzed in different parts of the fruit and derived products (juice, jam, pomace), and their bioaccessibility was measured through a standardized in vitro digestion (INFOGEST®).
Key results
| Fabric / Product | Betanin bioaccessibility (%) | Total phenols (mg/100 g) |
|---|---|---|
| Pulp (edible) | 22.9% | 273.42 (peel) |
| Fruit peel | 42.5% | high in pisidic acid |
| Processed jam | 0% | very low |
| Fresh juice (medium) | 28.5% | medium-high |
Flavonoids such as isorhamnetin and quercetin showed bioaccessibility between 30% and 53.7% , making them ideal for antioxidant formulas with a real effect on the body .
Why are these compounds important?
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Betalains (betanin, neobetanin): anti-inflammatory and liver-protective effect
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Piscidic acid: phenolic antioxidant with a cholesterol-lowering effect
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Isorhamnetin/Quercetin: protects DNA, improves insulin, and combats cellular aging
Which Tuno Canarias products contain them?
Thanks to its preservation technology and selection of raw materials, several TUNO CANARIAS products preserve and utilize these compounds:
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HIGO TINTO® Digestive Creamer
Prebiotic + antioxidant formula, perfect to combine with coffee or plant-based drinks -
FIGO TINTO® Fit Boost
Physical performance with FIG TINTO® extract, maca, L-carnitine and B vitamins -
Memory Nexus
FIGO TINTO® + rhodiola + ginkgo for mental focus, caffeine-free -
HIGO TINTO® Family Max
A smooth and nutritious alternative to unsweetened cocoa for the whole family -
Organic RED FIG® Powder
100% pure, ideal for capsules, smoothies and custom antioxidant recipes
Conclusion
This study demonstrates that the compounds in FIGO TINTO® are not only present in high concentrations, but are also bioaccessible , meaning the body can actually absorb them. The fruit's skin and pulp are particularly promising tissues for formulating effective antioxidant products.
At TUNO CANARIAS, we use every part of the fruit. Because it's not just about having ingredients… it's about your body using them.
Study cited
Gómez-López et al. (2021)
Characterization, Stability, and Bioaccessibility of Betalain and Phenolic Compounds from Opuntia stricta var. Dillenii Fruits and Products of Their Industrialization
Foods , 10(7):1593.
