Efficient Ultrasonic-assisted Aqueous Enzymatic Method for Pecan Nut Kernel Oil Extraction with Quality Analysis

Area of Science:

• Food Science and Technology
• Biotechnology
• Extraction Engineering

Background:

• Pecan nut kernel oil (PNKO) is a valuable product with numerous health benefits.
• Traditional mechanical pressing (MP) for PNKO extraction has limitations in yield and efficiency.
• Exploring advanced extraction techniques is crucial for maximizing oil recovery and preserving its quality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficiency of ultrasonic-assisted aqueous enzymatic extraction (UAAEE) with mechanical pressing (MP) for PNKO recovery.
• To assess and compare the physicochemical properties, fatty acid composition, and antioxidant activities of PNKO obtained by both methods.
• To optimize the UAAEE process for maximum PNKO yield.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of PNKO yield and quality using MP and UAAEE.
• Optimization of UAAEE parameters using Plackett-Burman design (PBD) and Box-Behnken design (BBD).
• Assessment of fatty acid composition, physicochemical properties (acid value, peroxide value), total phenolics, squalene, phytosterols, and antioxidant activities (DPPH, ABTS+).

Main Results:

• UAAEE achieved a significantly higher oil yield (71.32%) compared to MP (56.81%).
• Optimized UAAEE conditions yielded a maximum oil recovery of 78.83%.
• PNKO from UAAEE exhibited lower acid and peroxide values, and higher content of bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity.

Conclusions:

• UAAEE is a superior method for extracting PNKO, offering higher recovery rates.
• The UAAEE method preserves and enhances the quality of PNKO, including its bioactive components and antioxidant properties.
• Optimized UAAEE presents a promising, efficient, and high-quality alternative for industrial PNKO production.