Recent advances in extraction and food applications of natural bioactives using deep eutectic solvents

Deep eutectic solvents (DES) have emerged as green and designable solvents for extracting natural active substances. Recent studies have systematically investigated the key factors governing extraction efficiency, including DES structure, process parameters, and solvent properties. These investigations have established DES as a viable alternative to conventional organic solvents in natural substances extraction. This review examines the application of DES in extracting some major classes of bioactive compounds,e.g., phenolic compounds, polysaccharides, proteins and alkaloids. The analysis focuses on: characterization of DES and factors affecting extraction, synergistic extraction techniques and industrial potential beyond extraction. The high efficiency of DES in extracting active components are also explored. DES-extracted compounds (e.g., anthocyanins and proteins) exhibit enhanced stability due to H-bonding. Polyol/acidic DES systems offer a reliable method of safeguarding thermosensitive components. Combined with green methodologies, DES extraction enhances efficiency and reduces energy consumption. Additionally, DES have been demonstrated to enhance mechanical and barrier properties of films, the DES-based microextraction technique detects food contaminants and it is extensively employed in the domain of biorefining. Nevertheless, DES are still many challenges to be addressed, including the lack of clarity surrounding microscopic interaction mechanisms, difficulties in solvent recovery, and so on. Future research should focus on mechanistic exploration, system optimization, and expanding green applications.