2016, Pages 83–99
Abstract
Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus
L.) is an important wild berry that has long tradition as a food and
medicinal plant in Europe. Nowadays, bilberries are picked commercially,
especially in northern and eastern parts of Europe. These berries are
among the best sources of anthocyanin pigments, which have multiple
health-beneficial properties. In addition to anthocyanins, bilberries
also contain high yields other phenolic compounds and carotenoids, and
are a good-to-moderate source of vitamins and both macro- and
micro-nutrients. Variation in the quantitative and qualitative
composition of phytonutrients has been detected between different
bilberry ecotypes, but more comprehensive studies on this topic are
still needed. As bilberries have not been subjected to breeding or
cultivation programs, the populations of this species still possess the
natural variation developed as a result of long-term adaptation, under
different growth conditions.
Keywords
- Anthocyanins;
- Ascorbic acid;
- Bilberry;
- Carotenoids;
- Flavonoids;
- Minerals;
- Vaccinium;
- Vitamins
List of Abbreviations
- DW
- Dry weight
- FW
- Fresh weight
Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
