Utilization of Blackthorn Plums (Prunus spinosa) and Sweet Cherry (Prunus avium) Kernel Oil: Assessment of Chemical Composition, Antioxidant Activity, and Oxidative Stability

Abstract

Prunus avium L. and Prunus spinosa L. are valuable fruit-bearing trees known for their bioactive compounds and medicinal properties. However, limited research exists regarding their kernel oils. This study aimed to compare the chemical composition, quality parameters, and bioactive potential of the kernel oils extracted from Prunus avium L. and Prunus spinosa L. The kernel oils’ fatty acid and tocopherol profiles were characterized, and the presence of bioactive compounds were identified and quantified. Total polyphenol content (TPC) and antioxidant activity (AAC) were also measured, indicating the presence of bioactive compounds in both oils. Additionally, the main quality parameters, including oxidative status, were evaluated. The fatty acid analysis revealed a higher proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids compared to monounsaturated fatty acids in both kernel oil samples. Linoleic acid (57–64%) and oleic acid (18–29%) were the major fatty acids in both Prunus avium L. and Prunus spinosa L. kernel oils. α-Eleostearic acid (11.87%) was quantified only in Prunus avium kernel oil. Furthermore, the α-, β-, γ-, and δ-tocopherol content were determined, and it was found that both kernel oils contained γ-tocopherol as the major tocopherol (~204–237 mg/Kg). TPC in Prunus avium L. kernel oil was measured at 9.5 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/Kg and recorded as ~316% higher TPC than Prunus spinosa L. kernel oil. However, the recorded AAC were 11.87 and 14.22 μmol Trolox equivalent (TE)/Kg oil, respectively. Both oils recorded low peroxide values (~1.50 mmol H2O2/Kg), and low TBARS value (~0.4 mmol malondialdehyde equivalents, MDAE/Kg oil), but high p-anisidine value (23–32). The results indicated that both Prunus avium L. and Prunus spinosa L. kernel oils exhibited unique chemical compositions.