The optimization of extraction of antioxidants from apple pomace by pressurized liquids

Pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) is a green extraction technique that can enhance extraction rates of bioactive compounds. PLE was used to extract antioxidants and polyphenols from industrially generated apple pomace at two different temperature ranges: 160 to 193 degrees C and 75 to 125 degrees C. Antioxidant activity (DPPH radical scavenging test), total phenol content and three individual polyphenol groups were determined. Response surface methodology was used to optimize the five response values. Maximum antioxidant activity was obtained at a temperature of 200 degrees C, but unwanted compounds such as hydroxymethylfurfural were formed. Therefore a lower temperature range between 75 and 125 degrees C is recommended. Using this temperature range, a maximum antioxidant activity was determined at 60% ethanol and 102 degrees C. By using PLE the antioxidant activity was increased 2.4 times in comparison to traditional solid-liquid extraction, and the technique may be a promising alternative to conventional techniques for extracting antioxidants.