Two traditional Apulian varieties of Cucumis melo L. exhibit superior sensory and digestive profiles over common cucumber: a population-based and clinical study
Our findings demonstrate that BAR and SCO combine greater sensory appeal with improved digestive tolerance compared to CUC. These traditional varieties may therefore be promoted as culturally relevant, palatable, and physiologically favorable alternatives to common cucumbers. Further research is warranted to assess their broader metabolic and health effects.
Authors
- Pietro Santamaria (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5918-7322)
- Onofrio Davide Palmitessa (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5918-7565)
- Mohamad Khalil (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5943-9531)
- Massimiliano Renna (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7458-6161)
- Agostino Di Ciaula (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5476-7376)
- Piero Portincasa (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5359-1471)
- Adriano Didonna (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0006-6040-579X)
- Valeria Perniola
- Gianni Pietragalla
Institutions
- University of Bari Aldo Moro (IT)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Frontiers in Nutrition
- Published
- 2025-10-21
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2025.1662952
- Primary Topic
- Advances in Cucurbitaceae Research
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00
Funders
- European Commission
- Regione Puglia