Broccoli and calcium
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Broccoli and Calcium: Nutritional Insights and Post-Harvest Treatments
Nutritional Composition of Broccoli: Calcium and Other Nutrients
Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) is renowned for its rich nutritional profile, which includes a variety of vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds. Among these, calcium is a significant mineral found in broccoli, making it an important dietary source, especially for individuals who consume limited dairy products . Studies have shown that the bioavailability of calcium from broccoli is comparable to that from milk, with an average absorption rate of 0.514, which is slightly higher than that of milk . This makes broccoli a valuable alternative source of calcium in the human diet.
Calcium Absorption and Bioavailability
Research indicates that the absorption of calcium from broccoli is efficient, with fractional absorption rates averaging around 0.478, which is comparable to other Brassica vegetables like bok choy and kale. This high bioavailability is crucial for ensuring that the calcium consumed through broccoli is effectively utilized by the body, supporting bone health and other physiological functions.
Enhancing Broccoli Quality with Calcium Treatments
Post-Harvest Calcium Applications
Post-harvest treatments with calcium chloride (CaCl2) have been shown to significantly enhance the quality and shelf-life of broccoli. For instance, the application of CaCl2, either alone or in combination with salicylic acid (SA), helps in maintaining the chlorophyll content, reducing weight loss, and preserving the antioxidant activity of broccoli florets during storage . These treatments also inhibit the degradation of chlorophyll and reduce the rate of respiration and ethylene production, thereby delaying senescence and extending the shelf-life of broccoli .
Pre-Harvest Calcium Applications
Pre-harvest applications of calcium have also been found to be beneficial. Spraying broccoli microgreens with calcium chloride increases their biomass, enhances their calcium content, and improves their overall visual quality during storage. Additionally, pre-harvest calcium treatments elevate the levels of glucosinolates, which are important phytochemicals with health-promoting properties. These treatments also improve the antioxidant system and delay chlorophyll degradation, further extending the shelf-life of broccoli .
Genetic and Environmental Influences on Calcium Content
The calcium content in broccoli can vary significantly depending on genetic and environmental factors. Studies have shown that different broccoli cultivars exhibit varying levels of calcium, with some cultivars having more than double the calcium concentration of others . Environmental conditions, such as the season in which broccoli is grown, also affect its mineral content, with higher calcium levels typically observed in spring/summer compared to summer/winter.
Conclusion
Broccoli is a highly nutritious vegetable, particularly noted for its calcium content, which is comparable to that of milk. Both pre-harvest and post-harvest calcium treatments can significantly enhance the quality, shelf-life, and nutritional value of broccoli. These treatments help maintain chlorophyll content, reduce weight loss, and preserve antioxidant activity, making broccoli an even more valuable component of a healthy diet. Understanding the genetic and environmental factors that influence calcium content can further optimize broccoli cultivation for maximum nutritional benefits.
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