Abstract Detail

Colloquium: Speaking of Food: connecting basic and applied science

Amoroso, Victor [1], Lagumbay, April Joie [1], Mendez, Rainear [1], de la Cruz, Reggie [1], Villalobos, Ann [2].

Utilization of Indigenous Edible Mindanao Ferns as an Alternative Food Source.

The high incidence of cancer,atherosclerosis, and other degenerative diseases among Filipinos seem to be due to environmental pollutants and to the type of food we eat. Ferns in the Philippines had been used by native people as food, tea and medicine for a long time. We then conducted a study to determine bioactives and proteins in ferns to demonstrate their health and wellness benefits and for reintroducing ferns into the Filipino diet. Ten species of indigenous edible ferns from Mindanao were included in this study. A pteridogarden was established at Central Mindanao University, Musuan, Bukidnon, Philippines and for mass production at the Mt. Musuan Botanical and Zoological Gardens. Laboratory tests showed protein content by the Bradford assay ranging from 0.08 to 4.39 mg/g and antioxidant activity by the DPPH assay as high as 83% that of ascorbic acid or at 143 to 588 ORAC units/g. Marsilea crenata gave the highest protein content as well as antioxidant activity with Cyathea contaminans, a tree fern,having the lowest protein content. All the ten fern species contain phytochemicals. The relative component proteins by SDS-PAGE indicated proteins with molecular weights ranging from 19-92kDa, and with similar profiles. As outputs of the study, we held a fern gourmet contest evaluated by a sensory panel and we prepared brochures for the propagation of these fern species. To educate the public of the health and wellness benefits of ferns in the diet and their economic value we held trainings and seminars, which were participated by farmers and local government units. The aim was to share and spread the findings and practices so many Filipinos would benefit from including these species of edible ferns in their food.

Broader Impacts:

1 - Central Mindanao University, Biology, University Town, Musuan, Bukidnon, N/A, 8710, Philippines
2 - Central Mindanao University, DOST Balik Scientist Program, University Town, Musuan, N/A, Bukidnon, 8710, Philippines

Keywords:
pteridogarden
ferns
anti-oxidants
proteins
phytochemicals
fern gourmet.

Presentation Type: Symposium or Colloquium Presentation
Session: C7
Location: Grand Ballroom A/Riverside Hilton
Date: Tuesday, July 30th, 2013
Time: 3:30 PM
Number: C7007
Abstract ID:123
Candidate for Awards:None