LAUSR

BACKGROUND Germination is regarded as a natural method to improve the bioavailability of seed nutrients against stress, which enhances the accumulation of bioactive compounds. Thus, this study aimed to elucidate the effect of stress (H2 O2 , catechin, gallic acid, tyrosine, and NaCl) during germination of djulis (Chenopodium formosanum Koidz.) sprouts on betacyanin, phytochemicals, and antioxidant capacities. RESULTS The betacyanin and antioxidant activities of the djulis sprouts increased significantly compared to seeds. The lowest betacyanin was found in NaCl-stressed sprouts. The djulis sprouts reported the presence of celosianins I and II (50.72%), which was absent in seeds. Hydroxycinnamic acids accounted for >60% of the total phenolic compounds in sprouts, while rutin predominated in the seeds. CONCLUSION Germination under stress may represent an effective natural method for improving the bioactive potential of sprouts, an alternative to use seeds, in development of bioactive compounds-enriched healthy foods and good for public health. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.