Applications of metabolomic techniques to explore the diversity of phenolic compounds in pseudocereals: Effects of processing and health implications.

Abstract

Pseudocereals such as amaranth, buckwheat, and quinoa are gaining attention for their exceptional nutritional profile and health-promoting properties. Unlike traditional cereals, pseudocereals are rich in phenolic compounds, which have been characterized using metabolomics approaches, enhancing their value for food security and combating micronutrient deficiencies. Metabolomics, a powerful analytical tool, has been instrumental in characterizing the diverse bioactive compounds in these grains, with a focus on phenolic compounds that contribute to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and anticancer properties. This review summarizes recent advancements in metabolomics approaches, including liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC), to identify and quantify the phenolic composition of pseudocereals. It also discusses the impact of various environmental factors, genetic diversity, and food processing techniques, such as fermentation, roasting, and germination, on the metabolic profile of these grains.