Chemical characterization of Sicilian dried nopal [Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill.] in relation to the cultivar and pruning season.

Overall, obtained results pointed out that Sicilian dried nopal had a unique (phyto)chemical profile, not comparable to the dried nopal coming from other relevant producer countries (e.g., Mexico and Spain). Its macro- and micronutrients showed to be affected by both cultivar and pruning season, being, however, the influence of the pruning season more pronounced. Such variability should be considered when evaluating the employment of Sicilian nopal in food and nutraceutical areas. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.