Characterization of White Frost on Exocarpium Citri Grandis: Flavonoid Crystallization Enhances Anti-Inflammatory Activities.

ABSTRACT: Exocarpium Citri Grandis (ECG) is a distinctive medicinal and edible product originating from southern China and is often covered with a layer of characteristic "white frost" (WF). This study investigated the composition, formation mechanism, microbial safety, and anti-inflammatory activity of the WF. Multi-technique analyses revealed that WF mainly consisted of crystalline naringin (~80% of total mass). Drying-induced shrinkage and rupture of oil glands on ECG suggested metabolite migration and surface crystallization as the key mechanisms for WF formation. Microbial profiling revealed no significant differences in fungal and bacterial communities between WF and non-frost (NF) samples, and none of eight common mycotoxins was detected, confirming its microbial safety. Brewing tests

SUBMITTER: Yang M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12732236 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature