antotsüaniine

Antotsüaniinid are a class of water-soluble pigments found in the vacuoles of plant cells. They are responsible for the vibrant red, purple, and blue colors seen in many fruits, vegetables, and flowers, such as blueberries, raspberries, red cabbage, and violets. The specific color of an antotsüaniin is influenced by the pH of the plant tissue, with red colors typically appearing in acidic conditions, purple in neutral conditions, and blue in alkaline conditions. They are a type of flavonoid, a group of plant compounds known for their antioxidant properties.

These pigments play several roles in plants. They can attract pollinators and seed-dispersing animals by making fruits and flowers more conspicuous. In some cases, antotsüaniinid may also protect plants from damage caused by UV radiation and act as a defense against herbivores. From a human health perspective, antotsüaniinid are studied for their potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. While they are not essential nutrients, their presence in the diet is associated with various health-promoting effects, although more research is ongoing. They can be extracted from natural sources and are sometimes used as natural food colorants.