Flowers play an important role in human life. Due to their high nutritional and chemoprotective values, the consumption of edible flowers is gaining popularity as a food source and garnish. Consequently, the market for edible flowers is flourishing, and research in this area is expanding. This book provides comprehensive information on various aspects of edible flower production and application. It covers topics such as biodiversity, nutraceutical values, cultivation techniques (including soilless and precise production), post-harvest processes and quality assurance. The book delves into research on both traditional and innovative techniques in the supply chains of edible flower beverages, food, spices, and flavourings. Finally, the authors explore the application of edible flowers as garnishes in pastries and candies. This book is an precious resource for anyone interested in the burgeoning field of edible flowers.
Part I: Production Chain.- 1.Market Outlook and Role of Research in an Innovative and Sustainable Food Chain of Edible Flowers.- 2.Biodiversity, Wild Harvesting, Domestication, Selection, and Breeding of Edible Flowers.- 3.Soil Cultivation of Edible Flowers.- 4.Soilless Cultivation of Edible Flowers.- 5.Precision Production Technologies for Edible Flowers.- 6.Edible Flowers Bioactive Compounds: Nutraceutical Aspect and Industrial Food Exploration.- 7.Adulterant Detection Techniques in Edible Flowers and their Products.- 8.Postharvest Handling and Shelf Life of Edible Flowers.- 9.Postharvest Technologies Applied to Edible Flowers.- Part II: Applications.- 10.Edible Flowers for Infusion.- 11.Edible Flowers for Non-Alcoholic Beverages.- 12.Edible Flowers for Liquors.- 13.Edible Flowers for Different Food Preparations.- 14.Edible Flowers for Food Colouring.- 15.Edible Flowers for Pastry and Candies: Technologies Used for Their Application.
