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Microwave-Assisted Extraction of Phenolic Compounds and Antioxidants for Cosmetic Applications Using Polyol-Based Technology
Published on: August 23, 2024
Carotenoid extraction from plants using a novel, environmentally friendly solvent.
Betty K Ishida1, Mary H Chapman
1US Department of Agriculture, Processed Foods Research Unit, Western Regional Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, Albany, California 94710, USA. betty.ishida@ars.usda.gov
Ethyl lactate offers an eco-friendly solution for extracting valuable carotenoids like lycopene, lutein, and beta-carotene. This sustainable solvent, enhanced by antioxidants, provides a safer alternative to petroleum-based options for food and supplements.
Area of Science:
- Food Chemistry
- Green Chemistry
- Nutraceutical Science
Background:
- Limited availability of safe, environmentally friendly solvents for carotenoid extraction.
- Current effective solvents are petroleum-derived and toxic for consumption.
- Carotenoid extracts are valuable for dietary supplements and functional foods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate ethyl lactate as a green solvent for carotenoid extraction.
- To assess the impact of antioxidants on extraction efficiency.
- To compare ethyl lactate with conventional solvents like ethyl acetate.
Main Methods:
- Extraction of lycopene isomers from tomato powder using ethyl lactate.
- Extraction of lutein and beta-carotene from white corn and carrot powders.
- Assessment of extraction efficiency with and without alpha-tocopherol and alpha-lipoic acid.
Main Results:
- Ethyl lactate effectively extracts trans- and cis-lycopene isomers from tomato powder.
- Extraction efficiency is significantly enhanced by alpha-tocopherol and alpha-lipoic acid.
- Ethyl lactate also successfully extracts lutein and beta-carotene from corn and carrot powders.
Conclusions:
- Ethyl lactate is a viable, eco-friendly solvent for extracting various carotenoids.
- Antioxidants improve the efficiency of ethyl lactate-based carotenoid extraction.
- Ethyl lactate presents a safer, more sustainable alternative to petroleum-based solvents in the food industry.
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