Abstract
AbstractThe halophyte speciesSalicornia ramosissimahas long been consumed as food and is currently regarded as a high‐value gourmet item. However, given that these plants grow in estuarine areas, often impacted by pollution, and are prone to the accumulation of ions, the risks associated with food borne pathogens or toxic metals has to be carefully considered. The objective of this work was to gather evidence thatS. ramossissimaharvested locally in an estuarine system (Ria de Aveiro, Portugal) can be safely consumed as a healthy and catering‐amenable food. Fresh shoots, taken as green vegetables, and dried powdered shoots (green salt) intended as seasoning, were analysed for total aerobic bacteria, total coliforms,Escherichia coli,Bacillus cereusand fungi (yeasts and moulds). The nutritional profile and the concentration of macro and micro elements, including potential toxic elements, was also established. Fresh shoots and green salt were incorporated in catering meals (soup and a meat dish) and subjected to sensory analyses. The microbiological quality of fresh shoots and green salt was compliant with the guidelines for salad greens and herbs and spices, respectively. The nutritional and elemental profile revealed that fresh shoots have a high content in fibre and NaCl. From the concentration of Na determined in green salt, a daily dose of 7 g was estimated as corresponding to the recommended daily dietary intake Na. None of the other elements was present in concentrations that could exceed the dietary intake limits. In the sensory tests, fresh shoots were well accepted as salad greens but green salt, used as seasoning, was considered as insufficient in terms of saltiness and does not completely substitute cooking salt. The results confirm the nutritional and sensory value ofS. ramossisimaand represent a promising prospect for the incorporation of locally harvested or crop cultivated plants in catering meals.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
