Natural germination inhibitor composition

Abstract

Natural germination-inhibiting composition. The invention provides a composition, based on natural or naturally derived ingredients, exhibiting excellent germination-inhibiting properties. Figure for the abstract: Fig. 1

Description

Title of the invention: Natural germination-inhibiting composition. Technical field.

[0001] The present invention relates to the general field of preservation of all types of plants, in particular fruits and vegetables intended for food.

[0002] It relates to a composition whose function is to be a germination inhibitor to prevent or delay, during storage, the germination of all types of plants, in particular fruits, vegetables, tubers, roots, intended for fresh consumption or for the agri-food processing industry.

[0003] More particularly, the invention relates to such a composition, as well as methods of obtaining such a composition from purely natural extracts and of applying such a composition. Previous technique

[0004] A germination inhibitor composition, or anti-germination agent, is a substance used to prevent or delay, during storage, the germination of plants, in particular potatoes or other cultivated tubers, such as sweet potatoes.

[0005] The function of such a composition is to extend the storage time beyond the dormancy period of the tubers while limiting weight loss and preserving the quality of the fruits or vegetables, which can in particular allow the supply of markets throughout the year or extend the storage of these natural foods.

[0006] Germination inhibitor compositions act by blocking cell divisions.

[0007] There are chemical and natural germination inhibitor compositions.

[0008] The most commonly used chemicals for treating potatoes, especially during storage, are chlorpropham (CIPC) and maleic hydrazide. The latter is a growth regulator applied to plants during the growing phase. The major drawback of these chemicals is that treated foods may contain residues of the sprout inhibitor. Most countries have established maximum residue limits (MRLs) by regulation or have sometimes banned certain molecules. Thus, in the European Union, the MRL for CIPC has been set at 10 mg / kg for potatoes intended for consumption as is. Even when respecting this MRL level, consumers may still choose to avoid foods treated with chemicals.

[0009] The search for alternatives to CIPC has led to numerous studies on the use of ethylene gas, which inhibits sprouting at low doses without leaving any residue, and to its actual use, particularly in the United Kingdom. The major drawback of ethylene is that it induces an increase in the reducing sugar content of the tubers, resulting in a discoloration effect during frying, more or less pronounced depending on the cultivar, which is detrimental to processing potatoes intended for the production of frozen fries or potato chips.

[0010] As another natural solution, spraying essential oils of aromatic plants as anti-germination agents on plants has also been studied and their effectiveness has been demonstrated, particularly for eucalyptus or spearmint essential oil. This solution is very expensive and relatively harsh on fruits and vegetables.

[0011] In some countries, a sterilizing and anti-sprouting treatment by ionization has been proposed for potatoes. This treatment consists of exposing the potatoes to radiation obtained using radioisotopes, generally cobalt-60, and more rarely cesium-137. Although cost-effective, since gamma ray penetration allows the treatment of entire pallets of potatoes, thus considerably reducing handling, exposure to a radioactive dose for several minutes has several major drawbacks. First, the radiation induces the production of radiolysis residues, including 2-alkylcyclobutanones. Second, the quality and properties of the starch change slightly due to the destruction of certain starch molecules by radioactive radiation. Finally, the necessary radiation protection is very cumbersome and very expensive.

[0012] In addition to all the aforementioned drawbacks, existing solutions studied or implemented on a commercial scale have focused on potatoes. There has been no real effort to research anti-sprouting agents on other types of fruits and vegetables, particularly those widely consumed fresh, or even on any type of plant material, including leaves and roots.

[0013] Consequently, there remains a need for suitable germination inhibitor formulations that are easy to apply, at a lower cost, and that effectively control the germination of all types of plants, including fruits and vegetables, tubers, roots and leaves, and preferably are non-toxic and environmentally friendly.

[0014] The object of the invention is to alleviate at least part of the aforementioned need. Description of the invention

[0015] To achieve this, the invention proposes a composition, based on natural or naturally derived ingredients, exhibiting excellent germination inhibition properties.

[0016] It therefore proposes a new germination-inhibiting composition, comprising the following natural ingredients: - at least 0.2% by weight of germacrene, in particular germacrene D; - at least 5% by weight of tannins; - at least 1% by weight of phenolic acid(s), distinct from caffeic acid, in particular selected from 3-caffeoylquinic acid, 3-p-coumaroylquinic acid, 4-p-coumaroylquinic acid and mixtures thereof; - at least 5% by weight of eugenol; - at least 2% by weight of eugenol acetate; - at least 0.1% by weight of ascorbic acid; - at least 0.1% by weight of trans-anethole; - at least 0.1% by weight of thujone; - at least 0.1% by weight of caffeic acid;

[0017] - at least 2% by weight of juglon;

[0018] - at least 1% by weight of menthol;

[0019] - at least 0.1% by weight of menthone;

[0020] - at least 1% by weight of piperitone;

[0021] - at least 1% by weight of menthyl acetate;

[0022] - at least 0.1% by weight of luteolin;

[0023] - at least 0.1% by weight of diosmin;

[0024] - at least 0.1% by weight of hesperidin;

[0025] - at least 0.1% by weight of rosmarinic acid;

[0026] - at least 0.1% by weight of caffeic acid;

[0027] - at least 0.1% by weight of menthofuran, 1,8-cineole; and

[0028] - at least 0.1% by weight of alpha pinene, beta pinene and limonene; relative to the total dry weight of the composition.

[0029] As described in more detail later in the text, the various compounds present in the composition according to the invention are advantageously of plant origin, in other words, they come from plant materials. Advantageously, they are extracted from several different plants.

[0030] In particular, they are advantageously extracted, after selection of their content of active compounds, from the following plants: walnut leaves; sage, in particular clary sage; artichoke; clove; bay leaves; lemon; anise, in particular star anise; sage, tansy; coffee, propolis and / or common sage; maritime pine; peppermint.

[0031] Thus, according to an advantageous embodiment, the germination-inhibiting composition according to the invention comprises: - an extract of walnut leaves and / or an extract of clary sage, providing at least 0.2% by weight of germacrene, in particular germacrene D and at least 5% by weight of tannins;

[0032] - an artichoke extract, in particular dried artichoke, providing at least 1% in weight of phenolic acid(s), distinct from caffeic acid, in particular selected from 3-caffeoylquinic acid, 3-p-coumaroylquinic acid and 4-p-coumaroyl acid;

[0033] - a clove extract, providing at least 5% by weight of eugenol;

[0034] - an extract of bay leaves, providing at least 2% by weight of acetate of eugenol;

[0035] - an extract of lemon, in particular dried lemon juice or dried lemon, providing at least 0.1% by weight of ascorbic acid;

[0036] - an anise extract, in particular star anise, providing at least 0.1% by weight of trans-anethole;

[0037] - an extract of sage and / or tansy, providing at least 0.1% by weight of thujone;

[0038] - an extract of coffee, sage, in particular common sage, spearmint, Ceylon cinnamon, common thyme and / or propolis, in particular an extract of coffee, propylae and / or sage, providing at least 0.1% by weight of caffeic acid, the weight contents being expressed in relation to the total dry weight of the composition.

[0039] - a peppermint extract providing at least 1% menthol and 0.5% of menthone

[0040] - an extract of maritime pine, providing at least 0.1% alpha-pinene, the contents of weights being expressed in relation to the total dry matter weight of the composition.

[0041] Extractions are carried out by maceration in water and / or alcohol

[0042] Advantageously, plant extracts include:

[0043] - at least 0.1% potassium;

[0044] - at least 0.01% sodium; and

[0045] - at least 0.05% magnesium, the weight contents being expressed relative to the total dry matter weight of the composition.

[0046] The composition according to the invention can be in different forms depending on the desired application. It can be in liquid form, in particular in the form of a colloidal solution, based on water and / or ethyl alcohol, or it can be in the form of a paste resulting from the mixing of a solution according to the invention with plant fibers.

[0047] It can also be in solid form, preferably in the form of a powder, in particular having an average particle size of between 0.01 and 2 mm, in particular between 0.05 and 1 mm, especially between 0.08 and 0.5 mm and more particularly between 0.1 and 0.3 mm.

[0048] For certain applications, the powder can be compacted to form an easy-to-use tablet. It can also be macerated in water to facilitate administration if necessary.

[0049] A composition according to the invention can also be supported on an inert support, preferably a porous substrate, for example on a plant substrate as described more precisely below.

[0050] The composition according to the invention advantageously presents a spectrum of particularly advantageous properties, in particular resulting from the synergy of the compounds used extracted from the selected plant materials.

[0051] In particular, one composition proves to be particularly interesting for use as an anti-germination agent for fruits and / or vegetables of all types.

[0052] It also relates to the use of a composition according to the invention for the preservation of fruits and / or vegetables intended for fresh consumption or for the food processing industry.

[0053] The germination inhibitor composition according to the invention, in particular for a preservation treatment of fruits and / or vegetables of all types, can advantageously be sprayed.

[0054] Advantageously, the composition according to the invention can also be distributed in micronized form or simply evaporated.

[0055] Preferably, it can be useful for treating the air in premises where plants, in particular fruits and / or vegetables, are stored.

[0056] According to another particular embodiment, the germination inhibitor composition according to the invention can be used in a biodecontaminating air treatment process for a refrigerated or unrefrigerated storage room for fruits and / or vegetables, in particular based on two simultaneous actions: the active treatment of a mechanical filter; and the treatment of the passing air completed by the diffusion of the active molecules.

[0057] The mechanical filter, particularly a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) type filter, can be activated by a composition according to the invention. The pre-filter can also be treated. For example, the composition according to the invention in powder form can be deposited uniformly on the surface of the mechanical filter in order to diffuse the water-soluble active elements onto the filter medium.

[0058] Alternatively, the composition according to the invention in powder form can be directly integrated into the filter medium, via a vacuum method.

[0059] According to a particular embodiment, the composition according to the invention in powder form is mixed with activated carbon. This embodiment advantageously allows for the adjustment of the emission of odorant molecules into the air. Furthermore, the addition of activated carbon allows for controlled release over time of the composition according to the invention, and therefore of its germination-inhibiting activity.

[0060] Furthermore, as described in more detail later in the text, the composition according to the invention can be easily obtained from plant-based, non-toxic and biodegradable materials. It is therefore inexpensive and environmentally friendly.

[0061] It has the advantage of being self-preserving, that is to say, it does not require the presence of preservatives.

[0062] In summary, the anti-germination inhibitor composition according to the invention has many advantages, including: - limiting germination during the storage of plants of all types, in particular fruits and / or vegetables intended for human or animal consumption; - the prolonged preservation of fruits and / or vegetables as food, using only plant extracts listed in the European Pharmacopoeia and available for sale without a prescription; - minimal negative impact on humans and nature.

[0063] Other characteristics, variants and advantages of the compositions according to the invention, their preparation and implementation, will become clearer from the following description, given by way of illustration and not limitation of the invention.

[0064] In the following text, the expressions "between ... and ...", "ranging from ... to ..." and "varying from ... to ..." are equivalent and are meant to mean that the limits are included, unless otherwise stated. Detailed description COMPOSITION

[0065] As indicated above, a germination-inhibiting composition according to the invention comprises the following ingredients: - at least 0.2% by weight of germacrene, in particular germacrene D; - at least 5% by weight of tannins; - at least 1% by weight of phenolic acid(s), in particular chosen from 3-caffeoylquinic acid, 3-p-coumaroylquinic acid, 4-p-coumaroylquinic acid and their mixtures; - at least 5% by weight of eugenol; - at least 2% by weight of eugenol acetate; - at least 0.1% by weight of ascorbic acid; - at least 0.1% by weight of trans-anethole; - at least 0.1% by weight of thujone; - at least 0.1% by weight of caffeic acid;

[0066] - at least 2% by weight of juglon;

[0067] - at least 1% by weight of menthol;

[0068] - at least 0.1% by weight of menthone;

[0069] - at least 1% by weight of piperitone;

[0070] - at least 1% by weight of menthyl acetate;

[0071] - at least 0.1% by weight of luteolin;

[0072] - at least 0.1% by weight of diosmin;

[0073] - at least 0.1% by weight of hesperidin;

[0074] - at least 0.1% by weight of rosmarinic acid;

[0075] - at least 0.1% by weight of cefeic acid;

[0076] - at least 0.1% by weight of menthofuran, 1,8-cineole; and

[0077] - at least 0.1% by weight of alpha pinene, beta pinene and limonene, the contents being expressed in relation to the total dry weight of the composition.

[0078] According to a particular embodiment, a composition according to the invention comprises: - 0.2 to 10% by weight of germacrene, in particular germacrene D; - 5 to 15% by weight of tannins; - 1 to 5% by weight of phenolic acid(s), in particular chosen from 3-caffeoylquinic acid, 3-p-coumaroylquinic acid, 4-p-coumaroylquinic acid and their mixtures; - 5 to 30% by weight of eugenol; - 1 to 10% by weight of eugenol acetate; - 0.1 to 2% by weight of ascorbic acid; - from 0.1% to 1.3% by weight of trans-anethole; - from 0.1 to 10% by weight of thujone; - from 0.1 to 10% by weight of caffeic acid;

[0079] - 2 to 3% by weight of juglon;

[0080] - from 1% to 10% by weight of menthol;

[0081] - from 0.1 to 10% by weight of menthone;

[0082] - 1 to 5% by weight of piperitone;

[0083] - 1 to 5% by weight of menthyl acetate;

[0084] - from 0.1 to 2% by weight of luteolin;

[0085] - from 0.1 to 1% by weight of diosmin;

[0086] - from 0.1 to 1% by weight of hesperidin;

[0087] - from 0.1 to 2% by weight of rosmarinic acid;

[0088] - from 0.1 to 2% by weight of cefeic acid;

[0089] - from 0.1 to 4% by weight of menthofuran, 1,8-cineole; and

[0090] - from 0.1 to 1% by weight of alpha pinene, beta pinene and limonene, the weight contents being expressed in relation to the total dry weight of the composition.

[0091] A composition according to the invention may also include inert material, the nature of which depends on the form in which the composition is used and the intended use. For example, the composition may include inert plant fibers.

[0092] The contents of the various ingredients in a composition according to the invention can be easily determined by a person skilled in the art using known measurement methods. In particular, the measurements can be carried out by mass spectrometry or by gas chromatography. Germacrenes

[0093] Germacrenes are cyclic sesquiterpene hydrocarbons with the molecular formula C15H24. Five isomers of germacrenes exist, germacrene A, germacrene B, germacrene C, germacrene D and germacrene E; germacrene A and germacrene D being the two main isomers.

[0094] Preferably, a composition according to the invention incorporates at least germacrene D.

[0095] Germacrene-D is either constitutively present or induced in a wide range of plant species.

[0096] In particular, germacrenes, especially germacrene D, of a composition according to the invention are derived from walnut leaves and / or clary sage (especially leaves).

[0097] A composition according to the invention comprises at least 0.2% by weight of germacrenes, in particular germacrene D, in particular from 0.2 to 10% by weight, relative to the total dry weight of the composition. Tannins

[0098] Tannins are plant substances of the polyphenol family, most often water-soluble, of plant origin.

[0099] Chemically, they consist of either polyol (most often glucose), or catechin or triterpenoid, to which galloyl units (or their derivatives) are attached, or of oligomers or polymers of flavanols.

[0100] They are found in various plant parts, such as bark, roots, leaves, fruits, etc.

[0101] Preferably, the tannins of a composition according to the invention come from walnut leaves.

[0102] A composition according to the invention comprises at least 5% by weight, preferably from 5 to 15% by weight, of tannin(s), relative to the total dry weight of the composition. Phenolic acids

[0103] The phenolic acids considered according to the invention are distinct from caffeic acid.

[0104] A phenolic acid (or “phenolic acid”) is an organic compound possessing at minus one carboxylic function and one phenolic hydroxyl.

[0105] The phenolic acids considered according to the invention are more particularly derived from cinnamic acid.

[0106] This refers more particularly to hydroxycinnamic acid and / or derivatives of hydroxycinnamic acid, in particular chlorogenic acids, such as caffeoylquinic acids and p-coumaroylquinic acids.

[0107] Chlorogenic acids are compounds formed from hydroxycinnamic acids conjugated to quinic acid, with the following general formula.

[0108] [Chem.l]

[0109] in which: Ri=R2=OH, R3=R4=H (caffeoylquinic acid); or Ri=R3=R4=H, R2=OH (p-coumaroylquinic acid).

[0110] These phenolic acids can be produced by plants of the Rosaceae family, including pome and stone fruit trees; Solanaceae, including tomato and potato; Asteraceae, including sunflower, artichoke and lettuce; Rubiaceae, including coffee; Convolvulaceae, including sweet potato.

[0111] In particular, the phenolic acids considered according to the invention may be one or more of the acids selected from 3-caffeoylquinic acid, 3-p-coumaroylquinic acid, 4-p-coumaroylquinic acid (also called para-4-hydroxycinnamic acid).

[0112] Preferably, the phenolic acids of a composition according to the invention come from, for example, artichoke (Cynara scolymus), in particular dried artichoke.

[0113] A composition according to the invention comprises at least 1% by weight, preferably from 1 to 5% by weight, of phenolic acid(s) distinct from caffeic acid, in particular 3-caffeoylquinic acid, 3-p-coumaroylquinic acid and / or 4-p-coumaroylquinic acid, relative to the total dry weight of the composition. Eugenol

[0114] Eugenol or 4-allyl-2-methoxyphenol is an aromatic compound. It belongs to the phenylpropene family.

[0115] Eugenol is present in cloves, allspice, and cinnamon. It is also present in California bay leaves and Tynathus panurensis. In particular, it is found in the following plants: Eugenia caryophyllata, Cinnamomum cassia L., Cinnamomum zeylanicum, Dianthus caryophyllus L., Ocimum basilicum L., Ocimum gratissimum L., Ocimum sanctum L., Ocimum suave, Pimenta acris, and Pimenta officinalis.

[0116] Preferably, eugenol of a composition according to the invention is extracted from the clove (head and / or stem).

[0117] A composition according to the invention comprises at least 5% by weight, in particular 5 to 30% by weight of eugenol, relative to the total dry weight of the composition. Eugenol acetate

[0118] Eugenol acetate or 4-allyl-2-methoxyphenol acetate is an aromatic compound.

[0119] In particular, eugenol acetate of a composition according to the invention can be derived from cloves or from bay leaves, preferably bay leaves.

[0120] A composition according to the invention comprises at least 2% by weight, preferably from 2 to 10% by weight of eugenol acetate, relative to the total dry weight of the composition. Ascorbic acid

[0121] Ascorbic acid is an organic acid present in an enantiomerically pure form (L-ascorbic acid or vitamin C) in lemons, fruit juices and fresh vegetables.

[0122] Preferably, the ascorbic acid used in a composition according to the invention is derived from lemon, in particular dried lemon juice or dried lemon.

[0123] A composition according to the invention comprises at least 0.1% by weight, in particular from 0.1 to 10% by weight of ascorbic acid, relative to the total dry weight of the composition. Trans-anethol

[0124] Trans-anethole can be obtained by extraction from anise (green or star) and pine terebinth.

[0125] Preferably, transn-anethole is extracted from anise, in particular from star anise.

[0126] A composition according to the invention comprises at least 0.1% by weight, in particular 0.1 to 1.3% by weight, relative to the total dry weight of the composition. Thujone

[0127] Thujone is a monoterpene ketone with chemical formula Ci0Hi6O.

[0128] Thujone can be advantageously extracted from tansy or sage.

[0129] A composition according to the invention comprises at least 0.1% by weight, in particular from 0.1% to 10% by weight, of thujone, relative to the total dry weight of the composition. Caffeine acid

[0130] Caffeic acid can be more particularly extracted from coffee (Coeffea sp), in particular from coffee beans, from sage, in particular dried common sage (Salvia officinalis), from spearmint (Mentha spicata), in particular dried spearmint, from Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum), from common thyme (Thymus vulgaris), in particular dried common thyme, from Propilis.

[0131] In particular, it can be extracted from coffee, sage officinalis and / or propylis.

[0132] A composition according to the invention comprises at least 0.1% by weight of caffeic acid, in particular between 0.1 and 10% by weight, relative to the total dry weight of the composition. Juglon

[0133] Juglo is an aromatic compound with molecular formula Ci0H6O3.

[0134] Juglo, also called juglone or juglandin, is found naturally in the leaves, roots and bark of plants of the Juglandaceae family, and particularly in black walnut, but also in Fabaceae and particularly in Caesalpinia sappan. It is found in free form or as 4-[3-D-glucopyranoside of hydrojuglone (HJG).

[0135] A composition according to the invention comprises at least 0.1% by weight of Juglon, in particular between 2 and 3% by weight, relative to the total dry weight of the composition. Menthol

[0136] Menthol is a covalent organic compound with the molecular formula C1O2H2O, obtained either by synthesis or by extraction from peppermint oil or other mint essential oils. The most common stereoisomer of menthol is (-)-menthol, with the configuration (1R,2S,5R). It belongs to the monoterpenol family. At room temperature (20 to 25 °C), it is found under It takes the form of crystals, with a waxy white color. It melts if the temperature is slightly increased.

[0137] A composition according to the invention comprises at least 1% by weight of menthol, in particular between 0.1 and 10% by weight, relative to the total dry weight of the composition. Menthone

[0138] Menthone is a monoterpene with the organic formula C10Hi8O, occurring naturally in a number of essential oils. Menthone, with the configuration (2S,5R)-trans-2-isopropyl-5-methylcyclohexanone, is the most abundant of the four possible stereoisomers. It is structurally related to menthol, which has a secondary alcohol in place of the carbonyl group.

[0139] A composition according to the invention comprises at least 0.1% by weight of menthone, in particular between 0.1 and 10% by weight, relative to the total dry weight of the composition. Piperitone

[0140] Piperitone is a ketone with the organic formula Ci0Hi6O, obtained from the distillation of Eucalyptus dives leaves.

[0141] A composition according to the invention comprises at least 1% by weight of piperitone, in particular between 0.1 and 10% by weight, relative to the total dry weight of the composition. Menthyl acetate

[0142] Menthyl acetate is a monoterpene ester with organic formula C12H22O2, obtained from essential oils of peppermint.

[0143] A composition according to the invention comprises at least 1% by weight of menthyl acetate, in particular between 1 and ...% by weight, relative to the total dry weight of the composition. Luteolin

[0144] Luteolin or luteolol is a chemical compound with the organic formula C15H10O 6, belonging to the flavonoid family, and more specifically one of the most common flavones.

[0145] Luteolin is found naturally in the following plants: peppermint, rosemary, chamomile, peppers

[0146] A composition according to the invention comprises at least 0.1% by weight of luteolin, in particular between 0.1 and 2% by weight, relative to the total dry weight of the composition. Diosmine

[0147] Diosmin is a chemical compound with the organic formula C28H320i5, from the flavone family, specifically a heteroside, the 7-O-rutinoside of a flavone, diosmetin.

[0148] Diosmin is found naturally in citrus-type plants, particularly in lemons or lemon tree leaves.

[0149] A composition according to the invention comprises at least 0.1% by weight of diosmin, in particular between 0.1 and 1% by weight, relative to the total dry weight of the composition. Hesperidin

[0150] Hesperidin is a natural flavonoid with the organic formula C28H3O15, contained in orange flavedo for example

[0151] A composition according to the invention comprises at least 0.1% by weight of hesperidin, in particular between 0.1 and 1% by weight, relative to the total dry weight of the composition. Rosmarinic acid

[0152] Rosmarinic acid is a phenolic acid derived from cinnamic acid (polyphenol), with an organic formula.

[0153] Rosmarinic acid is a polar compound, soluble in polar solvents such as water and ethanol.

[0154] Rosmarinic acid is found naturally in the following plants: rosemary, lemon balm, sages, basil, mints, perilla, orthosiphon, lavenders, comfrey, savory, horehound, hyssop, bee balm, lycopus, oregano, self-heal, many plants of the Lamiaceae family, especially Boraginaceae and Apiaceae, Thunbergia laurifolia Lindl. (Acanthaceae).

[0155] A composition according to the invention comprises at least 0.1% by weight of rosmarinic acid, in particular between 0.1 and 2% by weight, relative to the total dry weight of the composition. Cefecic acid

[0156] Caffeic acid is an organic compound naturally present in all plants,

[0157] Caffeic acid is found naturally in the following plants: dried sage, dried spearmint, Ceylon cinnamon or common thyme.

[0158] A composition according to the invention comprises at least 0.1% by weight of cefeic acid, in particular between 0.1 and 2% by weight, relative to the total dry weight of the composition. Menthofuran, 1,8-cineole

[0159] Menthofuran, 1,8-cineole is an organic compound, a bicyclic monoterpene of the form Cl OH 140.

[0160] Menthofuran, 1,8-cineole, is found naturally in the following plants: peppermint, pennyroyal mint or in the leaves of Eurodia hotensis.

[0161] A composition according to the invention comprises at least 0.1% by weight of menthofuran, 1,8-cineole, in particular between 0.01 and 4% by weight, relative to the total dry weight of the composition. Alpha pinene, beta pinene and limonene

[0162] Pinene is a bicyclic monoterpene with the organic formula Ci0Hi6, which is found in large quantities in the resin of conifers (pine, fir, etc.) and non-coniferous plants such as wormwood, sage, rosemary, camphor or cannabis.

[0163] Two structural isomers of pinene, called alpha-pinene and beta-pinene, are found in nature in substances such as pine resin, rye, and turpentine.

[0164] Limonene, LIM, with the molecular formula CioHi6, is a terpene hydrocarbon.

[0165] Eucalyptus and peppermint, meanwhile, contain (-)-Ihnonene.

[0166] A composition according to the invention comprises at least 0.1% by weight of Alpha pinene, beta pinene and limonene, in particular between 0.1 and 10% by weight, relative to the total dry weight of the composition.

[0167] The various compounds present in the germination inhibitor composition according to the invention are thus advantageously of natural origin, in particular of plant origin.

[0168] In particular, they are advantageously extracted, after selection of their active compound content, from the following plants: - walnut leaves; - clary sage; - artichoke; - clove ; - bay leaves; - lemon (lemon juice); - anise, in particular star anise; - sage and / or tansy; - coffee, sage, spearmint, Ceylon cinnamon, common thyme and / or propolis, in particular coffee, propolis and / or sage;

[0169] - peppermint;

[0170] - maritime pine.

[0171] Thus, according to an advantageous embodiment, the composition according to the invention comprises: - an extract of walnut leaves and / or an extract of clary sage, providing at least 0.2% by weight of germacrene, in particular germacrene D and at least 5% by weight of tannins; - an artichoke extract, in particular dried artichoke, providing at least 1% by weight of phenolic acid(s), distinct from caffeic acid, in particular selected from 3-caffeoylquinic acid, 3-p-coumaroylquinic acid, 4-p-coumaroylquinic acid and mixtures thereof; - a clove extract, providing at least 25% by weight of eugenol; - an extract of bay leaves, providing at least 2% by weight of eugenol acetate; - an extract of lemon juice, in particular dried lemon juice or dried lemon, providing at least 0.1% by weight of ascorbic acid; - an anise extract, in particular star anise, providing at least 0.1% by weight of trans-anethole; - an extract of sage and / or tansy, providing at least 0.1% by weight of thujone; - an extract of coffee, propolis and / or sage, providing at least 0.1% by weight of caffeic acid; - a peppermint extract providing at least 1% by weight of menthol; - a maritime pine extract providing at least 1% by weight of alpha pinene, beta pinene, the weight contents being expressed relative to the total dry weight of the composition. Other components

[0172] According to one embodiment, a composition according to the invention comprises a fragrant plant or plant extract, in particular intended for the comfort of humans using a composition according to the invention, for example in an amount of between 0.01% and 2.5% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0173] Thus, a composition according to the invention may include spiced apple, terpene, lavender, sandalwood, eucalyptus, jasmine, penine, musk, nutmeg, peppermint, rose, lemon, bergamot and / or orange. Process

[0174] The present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing a germination-inhibiting composition according to the invention, wherein the various components are of plant origin, said method comprising at least the following steps: (i) supply of plant materials, in particular including walnut leaves; clary sage; artichoke; clove; bay leaves; lemon; anise, in particular star anise; sage; tansy; coffee, common sage and / or propolis; peppermint; maritime pine; (ii) optionally, drying of plant materials; (iii) grinding of plant material, possibly followed by sieving, so as to obtain a powder, preferably with an average particle size between 0.01 and 2 mm, in particular between 0.05 and 1 mm, especially between 0.08 and 0.5 mm and more particularly between 0.1 and 0.3 mm; (iv) Optionally, maceration of the ground plant material in an aqueous, alcoholic or hydro-alcoholic solvent medium for a period of at least 40 days, to obtain a maceration solution comprising the natural extracts of the plant material; and separation of the maceration solution from the residual inert plant matter, preferably carried out by filtration, decantation or centrifugation.

[0175] In a first step (i), the plant materials containing all the natural extracts of the composition according to the invention can be collected. These plant materials can be packaged in various ways. As previously stated, the plant materials used in this process are preferably walnut leaves, clary sage, artichoke; cloves (heads and / or stems), bay leaves, lemon juice; anise, in particular star anise; sage, tansy (flowers), coffee, propylaea and / or sage; peppermint; maritime pine.

[0176] It is understood that, according to the desired final composition, the quantity of the different plant materials is adjusted, for example by evaluating the final solution.

[0177] As previously stated, plant materials may be pre-dried before being ground in step (iii), in particular if the plant materials are delivered with a mass water content greater than 50%.

[0178] Plant materials are considered to be dry when the water content is less than or equal to 40%, in particular less than or equal to 30% by weight, in particular less than or equal to 25% by weight, relative to their total weight.

[0179] This step helps to improve the preservation of plant materials, particularly when subsequent steps, such as grinding, occur after a significant period of time, generally exceeding 20 days. Drying advantageously preserves all the properties and benefits of the plant materials. Furthermore, slow drying allows certain plants to undergo a transformation that promotes the concentration of certain active compounds, essential for the synergistic effect of the mixture.

[0180] The grinding step (iii) advantageously improves the transfer of natural extracts from plant materials to the solution during the implementation of the maceration step (iv).

[0181] It is understood that the grinding parameters are adjusted according to the desired consistency of the ground material. This grinding step can be carried out in a hammer mill. Sieving can be performed using one or more sieves with mesh diameter(s) adjusted to obtain the desired particle size.

[0182] The particle size allows the composition according to the invention to have the desired diffusion rate of the active molecules, in particular delayed over time.

[0183] Preferably, the powder obtained at the end of step (iii) of the process of the invention has an average particle size of between 0.01 and 2 mm, in particular between 0.05 and 1 mm, especially between 0.08 and 0.5 mm and more particularly between 0.1 and 0.3 mm.

[0184] According to a first variant, the powder of plant material containing the natural extracts according to the composition of the invention, obtained at the end of step (iii) of the process of the invention, can be used as such.

[0185] According to another variant, step (iii) is followed by a maceration step, during which the crushed plant material is brought into contact with an aqueous, alcoholic or hydroalcoholic solvent medium, preferably in demineralized water, so as to obtain a composition according to the invention in the form of a liquid containing the natural extracts contained in the plant material.

[0186] Preferably, this maceration step is carried out at a temperature between 20 °C and 35 °C, in particular around 25 °C. The maceration can be carried out at atmospheric pressure.

[0187] This step is generally carried out in a stainless steel tank with a thermostat to control and optimize the temperature in order to improve the extraction of active molecules without altering them. This step can advantageously be carried out in a stirred tank. This allows for a reduction in maceration time.

[0188] Preferably, the plant materials are left to macerate for at least 40 days.

[0189] Once the step of bringing the solution and plant materials into contact has been completed, the maceration solution, also called maceration juice, is separated from the residual plant material, for example by filtration, decantation or centrifugation.

[0190] A colloidal solution containing the composition according to the present invention is thus obtained. This solution is usable as is.

[0191] The dry matter concentration of the solution can be adjusted by adding powder of the same composition or by a subsequent drying step of the solution, advantageously by evaporation at low temperature.

[0192] According to one embodiment, the solution obtained at the end of maceration step (iv) can be dried to obtain a powder. This step can be carried out by freeze-drying or by evaporation of the solvent medium, in particular at low temperature.

[0193] The evaluation of the contents of the ingredients of the different natural extracts can be carried out on the colloidal solution obtained at the end of step (iv) of maceration or on the powder after drying.

[0194] According to another embodiment, the plant materials can be ground and sieved separately from one another. The final powder, containing the natural extracts according to the composition of the invention, can be obtained by mixing the different powders obtained from the different plant materials.

[0195] Similarly, in the case of maceration, multiple macerations can be carried out, for example by plant family. The solutions obtained from the different macerations can be mixed to obtain a final composition according to the invention in liquid form.

[0196] The composition according to the invention can thus be made in different forms depending on the desired application.

[0197] It can be in liquid form, in particular in the form of a colloidal solution, or in the form of a paste resulting from the mixing of a solution according to the invention with plant fibers.

[0198] It can also be in solid form, preferably in the form of a powder, in particular having an average particle size of between 0.01 and 2 mm, in particular between 0.05 and 1 mm, especially between 0.08 and 0.5 mm and more particularly between 0.1 and 0.3 mm.

[0199] For certain applications, the powder can be compacted to form an easy-to-use tablet.

[0200] A composition according to the invention can still be supported on a porous substrate, in particular an inert porous substrate.

[0201] By "inert substrate", in the context of the invention, means a support which does not interact with or modify the composition according to the invention.

[0202] Thus, the invention also relates to a porous substrate impregnated by a liquid composition according to the invention.

[0203] An inert porous substrate can be impregnated, for example by deposition or absorption, with a liquid composition according to the present invention, for example by the maceration solution obtained at the end of step (iv) of the process of the invention.

[0204] The porous substrate may consist of plant and / or mineral material. It may be an inert fibrous plant substrate, for example a corn substrate; or plants that have been used for extractions which are washed, dried and ground.

[0205] Thus, the process may include, after the maceration step, a step of impregnating a porous substrate, in particular an inert fibrous substrate, with the maceration solution.

[0206] Advantageously, the impregnated porous substrate is in the form of a powder.

[0207] Thus, the manufacture of a substrate impregnated with a composition according to the invention, in particular in the form of a powder, may include the following steps: - supplying a porous inert substrate, preferably made of a plant and / or mineral material; preferably of a plant material, for example in the form of a powder; - impregnation of the porous substrate with a liquid composition according to the invention, in particular a solution obtained at the end of the maceration step (iv) described above; and - optionally, drying of the impregnated substrate.

[0208] The inert substrate may also consist of residual inert plant material resulting from the maceration step, after having been washed and rendered inert.

[0209] The resulting product can then be dried, for example in a dehumidifying oven or stored in wet form, depending on the applications.

[0210] The inert residual plant material used as a substrate according to the invention is usually dried.

[0211] Thus, the process of the invention may comprise, after step (ii) of maceration, the following steps: - recovery of residual inert plant material from step (ii) of maceration, for example by washing the remains in the maceration tank(s), and possibly a heating step; - drying and re-grinding, if necessary, to obtain a homogeneous powder, in particular with the particle size indicated above; - impregnation of the recovered plant fibers, particularly in powder form, with a liquid composition according to the invention, in particular with the maceration solution; and -optionally, drying of the impregnated plant fibers, particularly in powder form.

[0212] Impregnating a support with a composition according to the invention advantageously allows for prolonged diffusion over time of the various active elements of the composition of the invention. This function is controlled by the distribution of the powder particle size according to a more or less broad Gaussian distribution.

[0213] The manufacture of a composition according to the invention in liquid form can also be carried out from a composition according to the invention in solid form, in particular in powder form, for example by: - soaking said composition in solid form, particularly in powder form, in a liquid chosen according to the intended application, for example in water, for example demineralized water; or - passage of a liquid, for example water, lukewarm or hot, through the composition in solid form, in particular in the form of a powder.

[0214] The solution thus obtained constitutes a composition according to the invention in liquid form.

[0215] The invention is illustrated in more detail by the non-limiting examples presented below. Examples

[0216] Germination-inhibiting composition according to the invention

[0217] A germination inhibitor composition according to the invention containing the ingredients detailed in the table below has been prepared.

[0218] Quantities are indicated as mass percentage.

[0219] [Tables 1] Compounds % by mass Germacrene D (walnut leaf and / or clary sage extract) 5 Tannins (walnut leaf extract) 5 Phenolic acids (3-caffeoylquinic acid, 3-p-coumaroylquinic acid, 4-p-coumaroylquinic acid) (dried artichoke extract) 5 Eugenol (clove extract) 10 Eugenol acetate (bay leaf extract) 2 Ascorbic acid (dried lemon juice extract) 1 Trans-anethole (star anise, green anise extract) 1 Thujone (sage and / or tansy extract) 1 Caffeic acid (coffee, propylaea, and / or sage extract) 1 Juglone (walnut extract) 2 Menthol (peppermint extract) 2 Menthone (mint extract) 1 Piperitone (extract of minty eucalyptus with piperitone) 2 Menthyl acetate (extract of grape juice and ensiled grape seeds) 1 Luteolin (extract of thyme and dandelion) 0.2 Diosmin (extract of lemon) 0.1 Hesperidin (extract of lemon) 0.1 Rosmarinic acid (extract of rosemary and sage) 1 Caffeic acid (extract of thyme, sage, coffee) 1 Menthofuran, 1,8-cineole (extract of mint, basil) 1 Alpha pinene, beta pinene and limonene (sage, basil, lemon peel) 1

[0220] The composition is prepared as described in the text, by grinding the different plant materials, sieving followed possibly by maceration.

[0221] To verify the anti-germination effect of the composition, the inventors carried out comparative tests on potatoes from the same batch.

[0222] Example according to the invention: some potatoes from the batch were subjected for 3 weeks to air whose characteristics were modified with the composition described in Table 1.

[0223] [Fig. 1] [Fig. 1] is a photographic reproduction of these potatoes, taken 4 months after the cessation of treatment with the composition.

[0224] It is clearly observed that germination has been stopped and stabilized. The germination-inhibiting effect of a composition according to the invention is therefore proven. And a 3-week treatment is sufficient to demonstrate this effect.

[0225] Comparative example: other potatoes from the same batch were subjected for 3 weeks to ambient air, therefore not treated with a composition according to the invention.

[0226] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is a photographic reproduction of these other potatoes, untreated, taken 4 months after stopping treatment by composition.

[0227] It is clearly observed that germination has taken place for each of these other potatoes.

Claims

Demands

1. Germination-inhibiting composition comprising the following natural ingredients: - at least 0.2% by weight of germacrene, in particular germacrene D; - at least 5% by weight of tannins; - at least 1% by weight of phenolic acid(s), other than caffeic acid, in particular selected from 3-caffeoylquinic acid, 3-p-coumaroylquinic acid, 4-p-coumaroylquinic acid and mixtures thereof; - at least 5% by weight of eugenol; - at least 2% by weight of eugenol acetate; - at least 0.1% by weight of ascorbic acid; - at least 0.1% by weight of trans-anethole; - at least 0.1% by weight of thujone; - at least 0.1% by weight of caffeic acid; - at least 2% by weight of juglon; - at least 1% by weight of menthol; - at least 0.1% by weight of menthone; - at least 1% by weight of piperitone; - at least 1% by weight of menthyl acetate; - at least 0.1% by weight of luteolin; - at least 0.1% by weight of diosmin;- at least 0.1% by weight of hesperidin; - at least 0.1% by weight of rosmarinic acid; - at least 0.1% by weight of cefeic acid; - at least 0.1% by weight of menthofuran, 1,8-cineole; and - at least 0.1% by weight of alpha pinene, beta pinene and limonene, the weight contents being expressed in relation to the total dry weight of the composition.

2. Germination inhibitor composition according to claim 1, wherein the ingredients are derived from plant material, in particular are extracted from several plants, and more particularly from walnut leaves, sage, in particular clary sage; artichoke; clove; bay leaves; lemon; anise, in particular star anise; sage; tansy; coffee, propolis and / or common sage; maritime pine; peppermint.

3. Germination-inhibiting composition according to any one of the preceding claims, said composition comprising: - an extract of walnut leaves and / or an extract of clary sage, providing at least 0.2% by weight of germacrene, in particular germacrene D and at least 5% by weight of tannins; - an extract of artichoke, in particular of dried artichoke, providing at least 1% by weight of phenolic acid(s), distinct from caffeic acid, in particular selected from 3-caffeoylquinic acid, 3-p-coumaroylquinic acid and 4-p-coumaroyl acid; - an extract of clove, providing at least 25% by weight of eugenol; - an extract of bay leaves, providing at least 2% by weight of eugenol acetate - an extract of lemon, in particular of dried lemon juice or dried lemon, providing at least 0.1% by weight of ascorbic acid;- an anise extract, in particular star anise, providing at least 0.1% by weight of trans-anethole; - an extract of sage and / or tansy, providing at least 0.1% by weight of thujone; - an extract of coffee, sage, in particular common sage, spearmint, Ceylon cinnamon, common thyme and / or propolis, in particular an extract of coffee, propylene glycol and / or common sage, providing at least 0.1% by weight of caffeic acid; - a peppermint extract providing at least 1% by weight of menthol and 0.5% of menthone;

4. Germination inhibitor composition according to claim 2 or 3, plant extracts comprising: - at least 0.1% potassium; - at least 0.01% sodium; and - at least 0.05% magnesium, the weight contents being expressed in relation to the total dry weight of the composition.

5. Germination-inhibiting composition according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising: - 0.2 to 10% by weight of germacrene, in particular germacrene D; - 5 to 15% by weight of tannins; - 1 to 5% by weight of phenolic acid(s), in particular selected from 3-caffeoylquinic acid, 3-p-coumaroylquinic acid and 4-p-coumaroylquinic acid and mixtures thereof; - 5 to 30% by weight of eugenol; - 2 to 10% by weight of eugenol acetate; - 0.1 to 2% by weight of ascorbic acid; - 0.1 to 1.3% by weight of trans-anethole; - 0.1 to 10% by weight of thujone; - 0.1 to 10% by weight of caffeic acid; - 2 to 4% by weight of juglon; - 1% to 5% by weight of menthol; - 0.1 to 2% by weight of menthone; - 1 to 3% by weight of piperitone; - 1 to 3% by weight of menthyl acetate; - 0.1 to 1% by weight of luteolin; - 0.1 to 1% by weight of diosmin; - 0.1 to 1% by weight of hesperidin; - 0.1 to 2% by weight of rosmarinic acid; - 0.1 to 1% by weight of cefeic acid; - 0.1 to 1% by weight of menthofuran, 1,8-cineole;and - from 0.1 to 6% by weight of alpha pinene, beta pinene and limonene, the weight contents being expressed in relation to the total dry weight of the composition.

6. Germination inhibitor composition according to any one of the preceding claims, said composition being in liquid form, in particular in the form of a colloidal solution.

7. Germination inhibitor composition according to any one of claims 1 to 5, said composition being in solid form, in particular in the form of a powder, preferably having an average particle size of between 0.01 and 2 mm, in particular between 0.05 and 1 mm, in particular between 0.08 and 0.5 mm and more particularly between 0.1 and 0.3 mm, said powder being optionally compacted in the form of a tablet.

8. Porous substrate impregnated with a germination-inhibiting composition according to claim 7, said substrate being in particular made up of a plant and / or mineral material.

9. A method for manufacturing a germination-inhibiting composition as defined in any one of claims 2 to 6, comprising the following steps: (i) supplying the plant material, in particular including walnut leaves, clary sage; artichoke; clove; bay leaves; lemon; anise, in particular star anise; sage; tansy; coffee, propolis and / or common sage; (ii) optionally, drying the plant material; (iii) grinding the plant material, possibly followed by sieving, to obtain a powder, said powder preferably having an average particle size of between 0.01 and 2 mm, in particular between 0.05 and 1 mm, in particular between 0.08 and 0.5 mm and more particularly between 0.1 and 0.3 mm;(iv) optionally, maceration of the crushed plant material in an aqueous, alcoholic or hydroalcoholic solvent medium, in particular for a period of at least 30 days, to obtain a maceration solution comprising the natural extracts of the plant material; and separation of the maceration solution from the residual inert plant material, in particular by filtration, decantation or centrifugation.

10. A process according to the preceding claim, comprising, after the maceration step (iv), a drying step of the solution, so as to obtain a powder, the drying being carried out in particular by lyophilization or evaporation of the solvent medium.

11. A method for manufacturing an impregnated porous substrate as defined in claim 7, comprising at least the following steps: - supplying an inert porous substrate, preferably made of a plant and / or mineral material; preferably of a plant material; - impregnating the porous substrate with a germination-inhibiting composition according to claim 5, in particular with the solution obtained at the end of step (iv) of the process according to claim 8; and - optionally, drying the impregnated substrate.

12. Use of a germination-inhibiting composition according to any one of claims 1 to 6, for the treatment of plants, in particular fruits and vegetables intended for fresh consumption or for the food processing industry.

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