Comparison of bioactive potential of cranberry fruit and fruit-based products versus leaves

The aim of the study was to compare fruit and fruit-based products (juice and pomace) of large cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon L.) with leaves as potential sources of health-promoting compounds. The study included leaves and ripe fruit of three cranberry cultivars: 'Stevens', 'Ben Lear', and 'Pilgrim'. The leaves and fruit were analysed for the presence and content of polyphenolic compounds using LC-PDA-MS QTOF and UPLC-PDA-FL methods, and for their antioxidant activity using ABTS, DPPH, and FRAP methods. The fruit, fruit-based products and leaves were found to contain flavonols, flavan-3-ols, phenolic acids, anthocyanins and dihydrochalcone. Regardless of cultivar, the leaves and pomace contained more polyphenolic compounds and exhibited higher antioxidant activity than fruit and juices. Therefore, the pomace and leaves are attractive raw products for the production of foods with high health-promoting value.