Pigmented Grains as a Source of Bioactives

Bioactives specific to pigmented grains are colored compounds belonging to the anthocyanin family. These compounds have been shown to have antioxidant and immunoregulatory properties in humans. In addition, they are of interest in sustainability terms, as they make grains resistant to pests and pathogens, thus minimizing phytochemical use. The nature and amount of pigments present in various classes of pigmented cereals are discussed, along with the possibility of retaining them as useful bioactives when cereals are transformed in various types of foods for direct human consumption.