MOSCOW, October 4. A quick way to determine the value of grape pomace in terms of the presence of antioxidants was proposed by UrFU scientists. According to them, these secondary products obtained from the winemaking process can be a valuable source of nutrients and can be used as the basis for dietary supplements. The results were published in the journal Chemical Papers.
As the researchers explained, the chemical composition of grape pomace is largely similar to that of grapes, and is therefore characterized by a high content of phenolic compounds such as catechins, flavonols, leukoanthocyanins and anthocyanins.
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“»We have shown that, in comparison with extract of fresh Isabella grapes, incomplete extraction of antioxidant compounds occurs during wine production, which suggests that secondary winemaking raw materials are still a valuable source of natural antioxidants» , – said Elena Gerasimova, associate professor of the Department of Analytical Chemistry of the Ural Federal University.
She said that they proposed a simple and accessible potentiometric method to control the value of grape marc.
“There are a large number of approaches, but they are usually based on the use of expensive equipment and are available for implementation only in the laboratory. The simplicity and accessibility of the approach we have developed makes it possible to transfer part of the technological process online and simplify express control of the final product,” – the expert explained.
The scientists noted that the developed approach for express assessment of the value of grape marc is universal and can be applied in any country where winemaking is developed.
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In the process of work, the researchers studied wine production waste, consisting of peels, seeds, leaves and ridges of red Isabella grape varieties (Vitis labrusca × Vitis vinifera), growing in the Crimea. The extraction was carried out using standard technology.
The further task of the scientific team of analytical chemists is to develop the proposed potentiometric approach and implement it in a portable version, which will allow the consumer to control the value of consumed plant products.
The study was carried out by UrFU scientists within the framework of the state program for supporting universities «Priority-2030» of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation.