Determination of the in vitro bioaccessibility of phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity of Juniper berry (Juniperus drupacea Labill.) pekmez

In this study, the total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), in vitro antioxidant capacity and individual phenolic compounds of Juniperus drupacea Labill berry and pekmez (molasses) were determined. Since pekmez was the only edible form of berry, the bioaccessibility of phenolic compounds and the antioxidant capacity of the pekmez were assessed following exposure to simulated gastrointestinal conditions. The phenolic compounds determined in the berry and pekmez were similar, while the pekmez was especially rich in protocatechuic acid, and additionally, the berries were rich catechin and chrysin.