Project Abstract

This project aims to explore the optimization of antioxidant extraction from fruit byproducts, a crucial step in harnessing the valuable compounds that are often discarded during food processing. Fruit byproducts, such as peels, seeds, and pulp, are known to be rich in various bioactive compounds, including antioxidants, which have the potential to offer significant health benefits. However, the efficient extraction and utilization of these compounds remain a challenge. The importance of this project lies in the growing awareness of the environmental and economic impact of food waste, as well as the increasing demand for natural, plant-based antioxidants in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. By optimizing the extraction of antioxidants from fruit byproducts, this project aims to contribute to the development of sustainable and cost-effective methods for valorizing these waste streams, ultimately reducing the environmental burden and creating new opportunities for the utilization of these valuable resources. The project will focus on several key objectives 1. Screening and Characterization of Fruit Byproducts The first step will involve the screening of various fruit byproducts, such as citrus peels, apple pomace, and mango pits, to identify the most promising sources of antioxidants. The selected byproducts will be subjected to in-depth chemical characterization to determine their composition, including the identification and quantification of specific antioxidant compounds. 2. Optimization of Extraction Conditions Building on the characterization data, the project will explore the optimization of extraction parameters, such as solvent type, solvent-to-solid ratio, temperature, and extraction time, to achieve maximum antioxidant yield and activity. Advanced extraction techniques, such as ultrasound-assisted extraction, microwave-assisted extraction, and supercritical fluid extraction, will be investigated to improve the efficiency and sustainability of the process. 3. Evaluation of Antioxidant Properties The extracted antioxidants will be evaluated for their ability to scavenge free radicals, inhibit lipid peroxidation, and protect against oxidative stress. Both in vitro and, where applicable, in vivo studies will be conducted to assess the functional and biological properties of the extracted antioxidants. 4. Formulation and Application Development The project will explore the potential applications of the extracted antioxidants, focusing on the development of novel food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic formulations. This will involve the investigation of the stability, bioavailability, and integration of the antioxidants into various product matrices. 5. Techno-Economic and Environmental Assessment The final phase of the project will involve a comprehensive techno-economic and environmental assessment of the optimized extraction process. This will include evaluating the economic feasibility, scalability, and environmental impact of the proposed approach, with the aim of ensuring the long-term sustainability and viability of the developed technologies. By addressing these key objectives, this project aims to contribute to the field of sustainable bioprocessing and the valorization of food waste, while also providing valuable insights into the optimization of antioxidant extraction from fruit byproducts. The findings of this research will have significant implications for the development of innovative and eco-friendly applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.

Project Overview