Sugar beet and beet pulp – a sustainable source of bioactive compounds

Abstract

Sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.), traditionally cultivated for sugar production, has emerged as a promising source of diverse bioactive compounds with significant health-promoting potential. This review explores the phytochemical profile and biological activities of key constituents found in sugar beet and its by-products, including saponins, betaine, polysaccharides, and polyphenols. These compounds are increasingly valued for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antimicrobial and hepatoprotective properties, supporting their integration into functional foods, nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals. Triterpenoid saponins in sugar beet roots, leaves and pulp demonstrate broad pharmacological activity, notably in immune modulation and cancer suppression. Betaine, highly concentrated in beet molasses and leaves, serves critical roles in methylation processes, osmoregulation and liver protection, while also contributing to cardiovascular health by reducing homocysteine levels. Polysaccharides, particularly from sugar beet pulp, exhibit valuable structural and functional properties for bioplastic development and dietary fiber enrichment, with emerging applications in green biorefineries. Additionally, polyphenols, especially flavonoids and phenolic acids, present strong antioxidant and vascular protective effects, with their extraction increasingly facilitated by eco-friendly technologies. Beyond their health benefits, the valorization of sugar beet by-products aligns with sustainability goals by promoting circular bioeconomy strategies. As research advances in optimizing extraction methods and understanding bioavailability, sugar beet is positioned to become a sustainable and industrially scalable source of high-value bioactive compounds. This underscores its relevance not only in agriculture but also in health and environmental innovation.