Comparative Analysis of Nutritional Composition, Bioactive Profiles, and Cytotoxic Activity of Fruit-Based Detox Juice Blends

Abstract

This study investigated the proximate composition, physicochemical properties, bioactive compounds, sensory characteristics, and cytotoxic activity of four detox juice blends formulated from guava-based blends (DJ1), orange-based blends (DJ2), pineapple-based blends (DJ3), and kiwi-based blends (DJ4). Proximate analysis revealed that DJ1 was richest in ash, fat, protein, and fiber, while DJ2 and DJ3 contained higher carbohydrate levels and caloric values. Mineral analysis showed measurable contributions, though typically less than 40% of the daily iron, copper, and zinc requirements. Physicochemical parameters were within acceptable limits for fruit juices. DJ3 demonstrated the highest sugar/acid ratio, indicating favorable sweetness perception. Bioactive evaluation showed DJ1 as the richest in phenolics and antioxidant capacity, DJ4 highest in flavonoids, and DJ3 superior in carotene content. HPLC analysis confirmed fruit-specific variations in phenolic acids and flavonoids. Sensory evaluation indicated highest consumer acceptance for DJ2, DJ1, and DJ3, whereas DJ4 scored lowest in appearance and overall acceptability. Cytotoxic assays revealed that DJ4 exhibited the strongest anti-proliferative activity against HepG2 and Caco-2 cancer cell lines, suggesting potential chemopreventive properties. These findings demonstrate that detox juice blends can serve as functional beverages, combining nutritional quality, sensory appeal, and bioactive benefits, with kiwi-based blends showing promising anticancer potential.