Optimization of Ultrasonic-Assisted Extraction of Antioxidants in Apple Pomace (var. Belorusskoje malinovoje) Using Response Surface Methodology: Scope and Opportunity to Develop as a Potential Feed Supplement or Feed Ingredient

Your morning apple juice leaves behind a treasure trove of antioxidants—and scientists just found a greener way to unlock it. Could this overlooked waste become the next superfood for livestock?

Apple pomace—the leftover pulp, skin, and seeds from juicing—is often discarded, yet it's packed with bioactive compounds. A new study dives into this underutilized resource, aiming to optimize the extraction of polyphenols and antioxidants from the Belorusskoje malinovoje apple variety. The researchers employed response surface methodology (RSM) to fine-tune an ultrasound-assisted extraction process, a green alternative to conventional solvent methods. They tested different extraction times and ultrasound amplitudes to see how these factors affected the yield of phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity, measured using DPPH and ABTS assays. The results were striking: optimal conditions for total phenolic content and DPPH activity were achieved at 17.5 minutes with 20% amplitude, while ABTS activity peaked at just 5 minutes with the same amplitude. Interestingly, the ultrasound method performed on par with conventional extraction, proving that eco-friendly tech can match old-school efficiency. Beyond antioxidants, the team analyzed the pomace's nutritional profile—proteins, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and amino acids—to assess its potential as animal feed. Despite modest protein levels, the pomace showed promise as a feed ingredient, offering a sustainable way to repurpose waste. This research not only highlights the hidden value in apple byproducts but also paves the way for greener, circular solutions in agriculture and industry.

Key Points

• Ultrasound-assisted extraction optimized with RSM for apple pomace antioxidants.
• Optimal TPC and DPPH at 17.5 min, 20% amplitude; ABTS at 5 min.
• Pomace shows potential as feed despite modest protein content.