Preparation, structure, and biological activities of the polysaccharides from fruits and vegetables: A review

Fruits and vegetables, as an important part of our daily diet, are rich in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. Moreover, fruits and vegetables also contain a certain amount of dietary fiber, which is closely related to human health. Increasing research has indicated that various active ingredients such as polysaccharides, polyphenol, saponin, and triterpenoid are isolated from fruits and vegetables. Polysaccharide with non-toxic side effects and strong biological activities is a critical active component in fruits and vegetables. Growing evidence has confirmed that polysaccharides from fruits and vegetables exhibit various biological activities including immunomodulatory, antioxidant, anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, regulating intestinal flora, and other activities. Therefore, a systematic review of the latest research progress and future development prospects of fruits and vegetables polysaccharides (FVPs) is very necessary to better understand them. In this paper, we have systematically summarized the latest knowledge about the extraction and purification methods, structural characteristics, biological activities, and potential molecular mechanisms of FVPs. This review provides some valuable insights and guidance for further research, development, and utilization of FVPs.