Fluctuations in the Phenolic Content and Antioxidant Capacity of Nettle (Urtica dioica L.) Drink in Refrigerated Storage

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze the total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of refrigerated nettle drinks stored at 4°C for 3 months. The antioxidant properties determined by 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays and total phenolic contents of the nettle drinks were evaluated using Folin-Ciocalteu method. In addition, correlations between antioxidant activity and total phenolic content were assessed. The results showed a significant increase for the refrigerated nettle drinks (p<0.05) in the case of total phenolic content and antioxidant activity in two months. It was concluded that the nettle drink should be treated as a short shelf-life product (2-month).