We sought to study the qualities and scientific benefits of Dongchimi, a traditional Korean food. We compared and analyzed ingredients used for the appearance and storability of dongchimi - honggot (Brassica juncea czerniak et coss), cockscomb (Celosia cristata L.), and beet Beta vulgaris L.). We specifically examined the antioxidative and antibacterial activity of pigments from extracts of these ingredients. Distilled water (H2O) and 1% citric acid were used to safely extract pigments. The antioxidative activity of the pigments was then measured for total phenolic compounds, SOD (Super Oxide Dismutase), and EDA (Electron Donation Ability) by DPPH. The antibacterial activity of was also assessed by a Paper disc solution. Our results show that the pigments had sufficient antioxidative activity and had antibacterial properties against Gram positive and negative bacteria. In particular, Cockscomb (used for enhancing color) contained the highest amount of polyphenol compounds and had the most efficient antioxidative activity.

This study was conducted to develop a method to change the color of traditional Dongchimi using natural dyes to meet changing consumer demands. It was intended to improve the manufacturing process ability for color Dongchimi, and the best optimum extraction solvent and method from the natural dyes were proven to be confirmed and valid. The extraction process was evaluated using different solvents including distilled water, 20% ethyl alcohol, and 1% citric acid, and the quantity of the extracted anthocyanin was then measured based on the absorbance. The greatest absorbance was observed when 1% citric acid was used. Based on these findings, it would be most efficient to allow the traditional Dongchimi to produce citric acid naturally instead of using artificial additives during its production. Celosia cristata L. was extracted in its largest quantity when reacted with 20% ethyl alcohol. Therefore, instead of applying Celosia cristata L. to Dongchimi as the sub-ingredient during the preparatory stage, it will be more efficient to use Celosia cristata L. as the fractional ingredient in order to first extraction.