Thermal and nonthermal processing of an underutilized fruit Emblica officinalis (Amla): a sustainable approach

Abstract

Indian gooseberry or amla (Emblica officinalis) belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family and is undoubtedly the chief medicinal plant of the Indian Ayurvedic medicine system. The unique array of biologically active compounds in amla endows it with ethnomedical and pharmacological value. Almost every part of the amla tree can be utilized in various medicinal formulations for the treatment of several ailments including cancer, dyslipidemia, diabetes, digestive issues and neurological disorders. However, the post-harvest losses of this fruit are as high as 30-40%, and thus the production of value-added products of amla fruit is profitable to both consumers and farmers, as it helps in capturing the benefits throughout the year. Therefore, in this comprehensive review, we provide a better understanding on the quality of amla based on its various bioactive components. Also, we present the thermal and non-thermal processing, packaging and storage, value-added product and health aspects of the amla fruit in detail.