Enhancement of biologically active compounds in germinated brown rice and the effect of sun-drying

Germinated brown rice (GBR) has been suggested as an alternative approach to mitigate highly prevalent diseases providing nutrients and biologically active compounds. In this study, the content of γ-oryzanol, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), total phenolic compounds (TPC) and antioxidant activity of soaked (for 24 h at 28 °C) and GBR (for 48 and 96 h at 28 °C and 34 °C) were determined and the effect of sun-drying as an economically affordable process was assessed. Germination improved the content of GABA, TPC and antioxidant activity in a time-dependent manner. Sun-drying increased γ-oryzanol, TPC and antioxidant activity, whereas GABA content fluctuated depending on the previous germination conditions. This study indicates that sun-drying is an effective sustainable process promoting the accumulation of bioactive compounds in GBR. Sun-dried GBR can be consumed as ready-to-eat food after rehydration or included in bakery products to fight non-communicable diseases.