LC‐QTOF characterization of non‐anthocyanic flavonoids in four Tunisian fig varieties

Flavonoids are compounds characterized by antioxidant activity, and their intake in the human diet is considered useful for health and nutrition. Non‐anthocyanic flavonoids in 4 different types of Tunisian figs belonging to the smyrna‐type Ficus carica varieties known as Kholi, Tchich Asal, Himri, and Bidhi were studied by liquid chromatography/high‐resolution mass spectrometry UHPLC‐QqTOF. Twenty‐two compounds belonging to the classes of flavanones (naringenin and eriodictyol), flavones (3 apigenin and 5 luteolin derivatives), and flavonols (2 kaempferol and 7 quercetin derivatives) were identified. Three O ‐methoxy flavonols (tamarixetin, syringetin, and isorhamnetin‐3‐ O ‐glucoside) were found in figs for the first time. Total content of non‐anthocyanic flavonoids found in dark varieties (between 410 and 830 mg/kg) show that these F .  carica are fruits qualitatively and quantitatively rich of dietary polyphenols .