Biotech Updates

Brazil Turns the Spotlight on Functional Foods

December 7, 2007

Scientists from Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (EMBRAPA) set their sight on a new area of research: functional foods that help prevent chronic-degenerative diseases and obesity. Functional foods are foods or dietary components that may provide a health benefit beyond basic nutrition.

With an initial budget of US $2.2 M, the project will include identification of active substances and antioxidants from native Brazilian plants, characterization of important fatty acids from grains, seeds, fishes and milk and genetic improvement of plants and animals offering more vitamins, antioxidants and fibers. Traditionally grown plants like passion fruit, camu-camu, soy bean and broccoli as well as some species of mushroom and algae are currently being studied for the presence of high levels of antioxidants. Twelve EMBRAPA units and several universities from all over the country will collaborate in the project.

Read more at http://www.embrapa.br/imprensa/noticias/2007/novembro/2a-semana/alimentos-funcionais-uma-nova-area-para-pesquisa/