Optimisation of the Total Oxidant Scavenging Capacity Assay and Application on <i>Euterpe Oleracea</i> Mart. (Açaí) Pulps and Seeds

Abstract

The antioxidant capacities of commercial and non-commercial pulps and seeds of the <i>Euterpe oleracea</i> Mart., Arecaceae, (açaí) palm were surveyed against peroxyl radicals, peroxynitrite and hydroxyl radicals. Analyses were carried out with the Total Oxidant Scavenging Capacity (TOSC) assay in a modified and automated version. The results were compared to several standard compounds as well as to a number of common European fruit and vegetable juices. Several antioxidants present in açaí pulps and seeds were identified, quantified and their contribution to the overall antioxidant capacities was estimated.