The variable response of different vegetables to boiling processes
might be due to tissue matrix or compound structures
where the kinetics of increase or decrease in phytochemical constituents
was different. The decrease in phytochemicals during
boiling was probably due to oxidative degradation or altercation
of their chemical composition making readily available in the
supernatant. The study hypothesised the change in free forms of
phytochemicals or their polymerisation or exchangeable cations
(Na+/Ca++/K+) and anions (Cl) or changes in permeability of cytoplasmic
membrane during boiling. However, none of the vegetables
fit well in a particular category for all the phytochemicals
suggestive of optimisation of boiling process with retention of sufficient
levels of phytochemicals while reducing anti-nutrients to
safe health limits. Those vegetables which showed decrease in
phytochemicals (irrespective of salt) during MW boiling should
be consumed after partial boiling. In case, boiling is unavoidable,minimal water usage and short cooking time is suggested to retain
desirable levels of bioactive compounds. The anti-nutrients
decreased by MW boiling indicating the positive sign for bioavailability
of dietary micronutrients and enzymes.