Novel strategies for enhancing quality stability of edible flower during processing using efficient physical fields: A review.

ABSTRACT

Edible flowers are an exotic part of the human diet due to their distinct sensorial properties and health benefits. Due to consumers demand edible flowers and their products with natural freshness and high nutritional value, there is increasing research on the application of green and efficient edible flower processing technologies. This paper reviews the application of a number of physical fields including ultrasound, microwave, infrared, ultraviolet, ionizing radiation, pulse electric field, high hydrostatic pressure, and reduced pressure aiming to improve the processing and product quality of edible flowers. The mechanism of action, influencing factors, and status on application of each physical energy field are critically evaluated. In addition, the advantages and disadvantages of each of these energy fields are evaluated, and trends on their future prospects are highlighted. Future research is expected to focus on gaining greater understanding of the mechanism action of physical field-based technologies when applied to processing of edible flowers and to provide the basis for broaden the application of physical field-based technologies in industrial realm.