Improving carotenoid extraction, stability, and antioxidant activity from Citrus sinensis peels using green solvents

Abstract Carotenoids have a wide range of applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries as natural coloring agents antioxidants. Consequently, are more concerned about extracting them from resources by-products. The present research aimed to evaluate extraction efficiency carotenoids orange peels using hydrophobic deep eutectic solvents (HDESs) alternatives for organic solvents. antioxidant capacity color stability HDESs extracts were monitored 20 days intensify process, ultrasound-assisted (UAE) was optimized response surface methodology (RSM). Menthol:Eucalyptol (Me:Eu) extract showed highest carotenoid yield [359.3 ± 3.5 mg/100 g fresh weight (fw)], also presented high during storage period. higher compared hexane extracts, while Me:Eu lowest variation (5.9 0.2). Optimal parameters time min, ultrasonic power 120 W (60%), solid–liquid ratio 1:20 (g/mL) reaching content 573.4 fw . While, C12:C8 optimal 10 80 (40%), 1:10 (g/mL), providing 183.7 To establish if used greener alternatives, EcoScale that UAE is sustainable method recover HDESs. Overall, results can improve stability, when combined with intrinsic safety edibility their components, it makes these appealing food industry.