Fruits and Vegetables as Nutraceutical

Food concept has altered significantly over time and the transition from a primitive form of human (Homo erectus) to civilised human (Homo sapiens) has a significant impact on the nutritional security of humankind. Globalisation entangled humankind among the choices of the right kind of food for his proper growth and development. The lifestyle adopted by the people today has modified the essential food habits of the latter. Consumption of junk food has inflated, resulting in a variety of diseases caused due to improper nutrition. Obesity is a global issue now. Heart disease is still a cause of death in the majority of the nations followed by cancer, obesity, osteoporosis, obesity, arthritis and several more. Mother Nature has conferred humanity with numerous plant species having medicinal properties, untapped till date. Fruits are an excellent source of minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial phytochemicals. Fruits and vegetables have immense potential of being developed into nutritional ingredients and supplements which have changed the perception of horticultural crops and products.