Optimized Alkaline Extraction and Functional Characterization of Carrageenan from Eucheuma perplexum Using Response...

Area of Science:

• Marine Biotechnology
• Food Science and Technology
• Natural Product Chemistry

Background:

• Seaweeds are recognized for bioactive compounds, particularly hydrocolloids like carrageenan, essential in the food industry.
• Carrageenan's functional properties are crucial for food applications, driving the search for novel and sustainable sources.
• E. perplexum, a red seaweed, presents an underexplored potential source for carrageenan extraction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate E. perplexum as a sustainable source of carrageenan with valuable functional properties.
• To optimize the alkaline extraction process for carrageenan from E. perplexum using response surface methodology (RSM).
• To evaluate the chemical composition, functional properties, and structural integrity of the extracted carrageenan.

Main Methods:

• Response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to optimize alkaline extraction parameters.
• Extraction conditions were optimized for temperature, time, and potassium hydroxide (KOH) concentration.
• Carrageenan yield, emulsifying activity, color, sulfate content, carbohydrate levels, and molecular structure (ATR-FTIR) were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Optimal extraction conditions identified: 85 °C for 3 hours with 2.58 M KOH, yielding 77.10% carrageenan.
• Extracted carrageenan demonstrated strong emulsifying activity (71.53 ± 2.41) and comparable color to commercial standards.
• Chemical analysis showed higher sulfate content (8.45 ± 0.16) and slightly reduced carbohydrates, with ATR-FTIR confirming expected functional groups.

Conclusions:

• E. perplexum is a promising and sustainable source for high-performance carrageenan extraction.
• RSM is effective for optimizing seaweed hydrocolloid extraction processes.
• Further research on purification, functional enhancement, and safety is recommended for commercial food system integration.