Comparison of green solvents for the revalorization of orange by-products: Carotenoid extraction and in vitro antioxidant activity

Adriana Viñas-Ospino, Ana Rita Jesus, Alexandre Paiva, Maria J. Esteve, Ana Frígola, Jesús Blesa, Daniel López-Malo

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4 Citations (Scopus)
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Abstract

Orange peels contain a considerable number of bioactive compounds such as carotenoids, that can be used as ingredients in high-value products. The aim of this study was to compare orange peel extracts obtained with different green solvents (vegetable oils, fatty acids, and deep eutectic solvents (DES)). In addition, the chemical characterization of a new hydrophobic DES formed by octanoic acid and L-proline (C8:Pro) was performed. The extracts were compared in terms of carotenoid extraction, antioxidant activity by three methods, color, and environmental impact. The results confirmed that the mixture of C8:Pro is a DES and showed the highest carotenoid extraction (46.01 µg/g) compared to hexane (39.28 µg/g). The antioxidant activity was also the highest in C8:Pro (2438.8 µM TE/mL). Finally, two assessment models were used to evaluate the greenness and sustainability of the proposed extractions. These results demonstrated the potential use of orange peels in the circular economy and industry.
Original languageEnglish
Article number138530
Number of pages10
JournalFood Chemistry
Volume442
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jun 2024

Keywords

  • Antioxidants
  • Carotenoids
  • Deep eutectic solvents
  • Green extraction
  • Orange by-products

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