Utilizing Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADESs) for Sustainable Phytonutrient Recovery: Optimization and Multi-Matrix Extraction of Bioactive Compounds

What if the secret to unlocking plant power lies in a solvent that's as green as the leaves it extracts from? Natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs) are turning the tables on toxic extraction methods.

For decades, extracting health-boosting compounds from plants meant relying on harsh, hazardous solvents. But a new study flips the script, showcasing natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs) as a versatile, eco-friendly alternative. These solvents, derived from natural components, can efficiently recover a spectrum of bioactive compounds—from the red betalains in beetroot to the vibrant carotenoids in carrots and sweet potatoes, and the anthocyanins in chokeberry and red onion, to polyphenols in honeysuckle, hops, rowan berries, and spent coffee grounds. The results are striking: one NADES formulation outperformed water in extracting betalains (179.86 mg of betanin per 100 g of beetroot), while another matched ethanol's efficiency for polyphenols. Using Lonicera japonica flowers as a model, the team optimized the process with Response Surface Methodology, pinpointing solvent ratio and temperature as critical factors. The champion, NADES4 (choline chloride-urea), achieved a total phenolic content of 75.94 mg chlorogenic acid per gram and antioxidant activity of 451.00 µmol Trolox per gram under specific conditions. This research positions NADESs as a tunable, green toolkit for phytochemical recovery, promising enhanced efficiency and a smaller environmental footprint. It's a win-win for science and sustainability.

Key Points

• NADESs outperform water for betalain recovery (179.86 mg/100g).
• NADES4 matches ethanol for polyphenol extraction efficiency.
• Optimized conditions: 60% dilution, 15:1 ratio, 80°C, 30 min.