Work

Mashua (Tropaeolum tuberosum Ruiz & Pavón): Nutritional Composition, Bioactive Compounds, and Functional Potential as an Andean Natural Ingredient

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Mashua (Tropaeolum tuberosum), an underutilized Andean tuber, has gained increasing scientific interest due to its exceptional nutritional composition and high bioactive phytochemical content. This narrative review synthesizes evidence from 68 peer-reviewed studies published up to August 2025, obtained through searches in Scopus and Web of Science, examining its macro- and micronutrient profile, richness in starch, proteins, and vitamin C, and diverse bioactive compounds, including glucosinolates, anthocyanins, and flavonoids. These metabolites exhibit strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and cardioprotective activities, with the highest concentrations being observed in purple and black morphotypes. Recent studies demonstrated that incorporating mashua into bakery, extruded, and fermented food formulations enhanced nutritional value and oxidative stability. Overall, mashua represents a promising natural ingredient for functional foods and nutritional applications. Further research is required to optimize processing conditions, improve the stability and bioavailability of its active compounds, and validate its health-promoting effects.

Source: Foods

DOI: 10.3390/foods14244198

Authors: Suny Luera-Quiñones, María Jimena Correa, Cesar Moreno-Rojo, Rebeca Salvador-Reyes, Luz María Paucar-Menacho

Institutions: Universidad Nacional del Santa, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Comisión de Investigaciones Científicas, Centro de Investigación y Desarrollo en Criotecnología de Alimentos, Universidad Nacional de La Plata

Language: English

Topic: Seed and Plant Biochemistry

Subfield: Food Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,499