Determination of vitamin C and total phenolic in fresh and freeze dried blueberries and the antioxidant capacity of their extracts

Investigations among blueberries growers indicate a focus on quality and nutritional content as ways of enhancing bioavailability through investment in breeding technology This is brought about by the quality of different varieties, total phenolic content and antioxidant activity Vitamin C is also an important component in blueberries. These micro-nutrients are abundant in blueberries and act as neutralisers of free radicals in the human body. The importance of the phytochemicals and vitamin C present has propelled the blueberry to a 'super fruit' status globally. Recent epidemiological studies have shown that many dietary phenolic compounds derived from blueberries are very effective antioxidants in-vitro which significantly contributes to their protective effects in-vivo. A high amount of antioxidants is found in the pigmentation of most fruits and vegetables which is commercially extracted to act as preservatives. The objectives of this study are to determine the antioxidant capacity, total phenolic and ascorbic acid content of fresh and freeze dried blueberries.