| Summary: | The conchocelis life cycle stage of <i>P. dioica</i> represents an unexplored source of bioactive compounds. The aim of this study was to generate and characterise, for the first time, hydrolysates of conchocelis using a specific combination of proteases (Prolyve<sup>®</sup> and Flavourzyme<sup>®</sup>). Hydrolysate molecular mass distribution and free amino acid contents were assessed, and the antioxidant activity was determined using a range of in vitro assays. The protein content and the total amino acid profiles of conchocelis were also studied. Conchocelis contained ~25% of protein (dry weight basis) and had a complete profile of essential amino acids. Direct sequential enzymatic treatment modified the profile of the generated compounds, increasing the amount of low molecular weight peptides (<1 kDa). There was a significant improvement in the antioxidant activity of the hydrolysates compared with the control (up to 2.5-fold), indicating their potential as a novel source of antioxidant ingredients.
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