Simultaneous extraction of oil and bioactive compounds from pecan nut using pressurized solvents

This study investigated the extraction of pecan nut oil using pressurized carbon dioxide (P-CO2) and pressurized liquefied petroleum gas (P-LPG) at different temperature and pressure conditions. The effect of the variables pressure and temperature on the extraction yield, antioxidant activity, fatty acids, and bioactive compounds (squalene and β-sitosterol) were evaluated. The highest yields were observed at 250 bar / 20 °C and 10 bar / 20 °C for the P-CO2 and P-LPG extractions, respectively. All oils presented inhibition of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical above 70%. Oleic acid was the predominant fatty acid in all samples. The highest values of bioactive compounds (squalene and β -sitosterol) were found in oils extracted with P-CO2.Graphical abstract
Source: The Journal of Supercritical Fluids - Category: Chemistry Source Type: research