Anthocyanins extraction from Amazonian matrices using natural deep eutectic solvents: characterization and ecological...

Area of Science:

• Green Chemistry
• Natural Product Extraction
• Food Science

Background:

• Traditional organic solvents pose environmental and health risks.
• Anthocyanins are valuable bioactive compounds with potential health benefits.
• Amazonian fruits are rich sources of anthocyanins but require efficient extraction methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) as sustainable alternatives for anthocyanin extraction.
• To optimize high-intensity ultrasound-assisted extraction (HIUS) parameters for NADES-based anthocyanin recovery.
• To assess the environmental impact and stability of NADES-extracted anthocyanins.

Main Methods:

• Investigated NADES effectiveness for extracting anthocyanins from açaí, mangosteen pericarp, and purple yam.
• Employed high-intensity ultrasound-assisted extraction (HIUS), optimizing molar ratio, solid-to-liquid ratio, added water, extraction time, and ultrasound power.
• Analyzed anthocyanin content, phenolic profiles using LC-ESI-MS/MS, and assessed environmental impact with Ecoscale and AGREE metrics.

Main Results:

• Molar ratio and added water significantly influenced extraction efficiency; optimal water content enhanced solubility without yield reduction.
• Extraction time and ultrasound power were critical, with prolonged exposure or high power causing anthocyanin degradation.
• Optimal extraction conditions varied per matrix, yielding significant anthocyanin amounts (e.g., 132.20 mg/100 g for açaí) with good pH stability.

Conclusions:

• NADES combined with HIUS present a highly effective and greener method for anthocyanin extraction from Amazonian sources.
• Optimized extraction parameters are crucial for maximizing yield and preserving anthocyanin integrity.
• NADES extraction demonstrates a lower environmental footprint compared to conventional solvent methods.