Phytochemicals in Goji Berries: Applications in Functional Foods

Goji berries (Lycium barbarum), which are widely distributed in Northwestern China, Southeastern Europe and the Mediterranean areas, have traditionally been employed in Chinese medicine from ancient times. Goji berries, also known as wolfberry, have become increasingly popular in the Western world because of their nutritional properties, often advertised as a superfood in Europe and North America.

With the development of analysis methods, various chemical constituents have been identified, including carbohydrates, carotenoids, flavonoids, betaine, cerebroside, -sitosterol, amino acids, trace elements, vitamins and other constituents. Polysaccharides have been identified as one of the major active ingredients responsible for biological activities.

Phytochemicals in Goji Berries: Applications in Functional Foods, a volume in the Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals Series, provides information about the chemical, biochemical, botanic properties, bioactive components and health benefits of Goji berries. It also discusses postharvest storage technology, processing technology, and the development and utilization of Goji berry by-products in medicinal foods and functional foods, as well as addressing food safety issues.