Assessment of milling and the green biosolvents ethyl lactate and 2-methyltetrahydrofuran (2-methyloxolane) for the ultrasound-assisted extraction of carotenoids in common and phytoene-rich Dunaliella bardawil microalgae

What if the key to unlocking nature's golden pigments lies not in harsh chemicals, but in greener, gentler solvents? A new study puts eco-friendly alternatives to the test against conventional ones, revealing a promising champion.

Microalgae are tiny powerhouses, packed with health-boosting compounds like carotenoids. But extracting these valuable pigments has often relied on harsh, traditional solvents. This research from Spanish universities asked a bold question: can green biosolvents do the job just as well, or even better?

Key Points

• Green solvent MeTHF rivals conventional solvents in carotenoid yield.
• Ball-milling pre-treatment showed no significant effect on extraction.
• MeTHF is a promising sustainable alternative for food industry.