Study of the lutein content of komatsuna (brassica rapa var. perviridis) for product development according to the ZFoods with function claims/ system

Abstract

Lutein is a carotenoid that is selectively taken up into the macula of the eye. Green leafy vegetables, such as spinach and kale, are known to be excellent sources of carotenoids. Although komatsuna (Brassica rapa var. perviridis) is a green leafy vegetable that is commonly consumed in Japan, little is known about its lutein content. Therefore, we investigated the lutein content of six komatsuna cultivars and the influence of hot air drying. The lutein content of the six komatsuna cultivars ranged from 3.7 to 5.4 mg/100 g FW, and it correlated with the SPAD values, which indicate chlorophyll content. Blanching of the komatsuna before hot air drying prevented the lutein content from decreasing. The lutein content of komatsuna powder that was produced in our laboratory ranged from 0.66 to 0.92 mg/g DW. When the komatsuna powder was stored at −30 ℃, the lutein content remained stable for 6 months.