Optimization of nutritional strategies by fruit products

Enhanced consumption of fruits and vegetables, as recommended by the "5 a day" campaign of the World Health Organization (WHO), has been associated with reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and cancer. High intrinsic levels of secondary plant metabolites and dietary fiber within fruits and vegetables are believed to play a key role in promoting such health benefits. However, daily fruit consumption in developed countries such as Germany has been reported to be far below the recommended levels (> 250 g of fruit/d). Average consumption of men and women in Germany is not more than 143 and 182 g of fruits per day, respectively. Although controversially discussed as outlined below, fruit juices may thus be a healthy and convenient substitution to meet the "5 a Day" requirements. Due to its high levels of carotenoids, flavonoids, and vitamin C, orange juice might be among the nutritionally most important fruit juices, and thus, might represent a relevant component of such a dietary strategy. The present doctoral thesis aimed at contributing novel insights into the nutritional relevance of fresh oranges and orange juices, particularly, regarding secondary plant metabolites, their maximum retention by innovative non-thermal pasteurization procedures, and the factors affecting their bioavailability in humans.