Energy-Dependent Effects of Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) Treatment on the Quality Attributes, Bioactive Compounds, and Microstructure of Red Bell Pepper.

ABSTRACT: This study evaluated the energy-dependent effects of pulsed electric field (PEF) treatment on the physicochemical properties, bioactive compounds, antioxidant activity, and microstructure of red bell pepper (Capsicum annuum L.). Red bell pepper tissue was treated at specific energy inputs ranging from 1 to 10 kJ/kg and compared with a fresh (untreated sample). The cell disintegration index (CDI) increased progressively with PEF energy, confirming enhanced membrane permeabilization and structural disruption. Structural analyses (SEM and micro-CT) confirmed the formation of pores and interconnected channels, particularly at moderate and high energies. PEF treatment caused a decrease in total polyphenols and flavonoids, whereas vitamin C and total carotenoid contents increased at inter

SUBMITTER: Rybak K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12787053 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature