Application of green chemistry principles for extraction of phytolipids and phenolic compounds

Abstract

A new era of functional foods has resulted in increased interest in the omega-3 fatty acids, phenolic compounds, and other phytochemicals for preventing and controlling the development of cancer, cardiovascular and other diseases. The focus of the present research is to evaluate the influence of modern sample preparation technologies for extracting crude fat and phytochemicals from plant matrices utilizing fundamental principles of “green” chemistry. Optimization of extraction procedures using modern technologies significantly reduces the quantity of solvent consumed and waste generated during an extraction process. In addition, automation with modern instrumentation reduces exposure to extraction solvents and their vapour. This paper describes extraction of two classes of phytochemicals of extreme polarities, phytolipids (hydrophobic) and phenolics (hydrophilic). It compares five extraction technologies (Butt-tube, soxtec, pressurized liquid extractor, supercritical fluid extractor and Ankom batch extractor) for extraction of crude fat from three soy samples. In addition, this paper outlines a systematic approach for optimization of an extraction procedure for isolation of phytochemicals from different plant matrices using potentially bioactive phenolic compounds as a model. Applications of modern extraction technologies, in conjunction with optimized extraction procedures, will enable chemists and chemical engineers to considerably reduce the quantity of solvents consumed and waste generated during the extraction of bioactive phytochemicals from different plant matrices.