Phenols, Flavors, and the Mediterranean Diet.

Abstract Phenols or phenolics are a class of compounds that have one or more hydroxyl groups attached to a 6-carbon aromatic ring, they occur as plant secondary metabolites, having in common the antioxidant activity. Their average daily intake varies widely around the world. Many researchers consider coffee, tea, wine, cocoa products, fruits and vegetables as the main sources of polyphenols in different diets. However, spices and culinary herbs have been referred to as the foods richest in polyphenols. Despite spices and culinary herbs are used in small amounts as seasonings, their contribution to the dietary supply of phytonutrients should not be disregarded. A diet rich in a variety of po…