European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY, NUTRIENT ANALYSIS, AND PHYTOCHEMICAL STUDY IN RIPE AND UNRIPE MANGO, LEMON, AND ORANGE PEELS.

Rafath Nasar Sultana and Anil B.*

ABSTRACT

Fruit peels are the outermost protective layers of fruits that have practical as well as decorative uses. Depending on the fruit, they differ greatly in thickness, color, and texture. Fruit peels have many applications if these variables are understood, and they are becoming an increasingly valuable by-product in the food and pharmaceutical industries.  To study investigates the antioxidant, nutritional, and phytochemical profiles of ripe and unripe peels from mangoes (Mangifera indica), lemons (Citrus limon), and oranges (Citrus sinensis) to explore their potential health benefits and industrial applications. Through DPPH and FRAP assays, nutrient analysis, and phytochemical quantification, we evaluated the antioxidant capacity, nutrient composition, and levels of phenolic compounds and flavonoids in fruit peels. Results revealed that unripe mango peels exhibit superior antioxidant activity and higher fiber content, making them suitable for dietary supplements. Ripe lemon and orange peels showed enhanced antioxidant with ripe orange peels being particularly rich in calcium and iron. This study emphasizes the significance of fruit peels as valuable, resource-efficient sources of health benefits and points out their potential applications in functional foods and natural preservatives.

Keywords: Fruit peels, antioxidant activity, phytochemical profiles, mango, lemon, orange, nutritional analysis, functional food.