ANTIOXIDANT PROPERTIES OF Gracilaria birdiae AND Gracilaria cornea, TWO RED SEAWEEDS FROM THE BRAZILIAN COASTS

摘要

Several synthetic antioxidants such as butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), and butylated hydroxyquinone (TBHQ) are commercially available and currently used; however, concerns on their safety and toxicity are hindering their use by the food industry.1'2'3 Therefore, the development of alternative antioxidants from natural origins has drawn increasing attention, particularly in the most recent years during which the consumer's awareness on food quality and safety issues has improved very significantly. Research efforts have therefore focused on e.g. medicinal plants for the extraction of natural and low-cost antioxidants that can replace synthetic additives.