Edible Flowers for Food Colouring
摘要
The consumption of flowers as a dietary component has been documented across various cultures, serving not only as an ornament but also as a means to enhance traditional cuisine and alternative medicine. As consumers increasingly seek novel flavours and textures, edible flowers have garnered attention within the food industry, offering not only visual appeal and taste, but also unique sensory characteristics. These flowers play a pivotal role in contemporary dietary trends, driven by the pursuit of healthier lifestyles and a growing interest in natural foods. In addition to being rich in essential nutrients such as fibre, protein, and amino acids, they boast a wealth of bioactive compounds, including polyphenols, flavonoids, and anthocyanins, which exhibit significant biological activities. Technological advancements have facilitated the extraction of these compounds paving the way for the development of functional ingredients and potential natural colourants for the food industry. Despite the presence of edible flowers across numerous plant species, only a fraction of them is utilized, underscoring the necessity for comprehensive studies to ensure their safe and effective utilization, including taxonomy classification and toxicological profiling. Scientific exploration of the chemical characteristics of edible flowers aims to bolster understanding and unlock their potential as colourants in the food industry.