Monitoring of curcumin in food samples using microextraction based on supramolecular solvent

Curcumin is a bright yellow chemical, the active material of turmeric (Curcuma longa), known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. This research highlights the application of a supramolecular solvent (SUPRAS) in a novel preconcentration procedure. The distinct properties and behavior of this SUPRAS enhance extraction capacity, allowing for better monitoring of curcumin levels in food samples. Critical process parameters were examined and optimized via multivariate methods to improve the efficiency of curcumin assessment.

Optimal data in curcumin estimation were determined: vortex time of 1.5 min, salt dosage of 3.2% (w/v), pH 5.6 solution and 197 μL of extraction solvent. The predicted data agree with the measured data, and the observed validation error, ranging from 0.78% to 3.14%, remains within statistically acceptable thresholds, indicating model robustness. The detection limit was 2.4 μg L^-1, and the linear range for detection was determined to be 8-600 μg L^-1. Various food samples were analyzed using the proposed model, demonstrating acceptable extraction efficiency and validating the model's accuracy.

A rapid, sensitive, cost-effective and straightforward method based on a microextraction supramolecular solvent model has been expanded for detecting curcumin in food samples. This procedure enables accurate quantification of curcumin levels, which is essential for quality control and assessing the health benefits of curcumin-rich foods. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.