Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea) stem as a potential source of dietary fibre: optimized extraction using vinegar and NADES-based microwave-assisted techniques and characterization
摘要
This study investigates the valorization of cauliflower stems as a source of soluble dietary fibre (SDF) using microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) combined with natural deep eutectic solvent (NADES) and vinegar, offering a rapid and energy-efficient alternative to conventional solvent-based or thermal extraction methods for the extraction of SDF. Process optimisation using Box-Behnken design was done, with the independent variables as follows: pretreated powder to vinegar ratio (1:3, 1:5, and 1:7), microwave power (300, 450, and 600 watts), and extraction time (10, 15, and 20 min). SDF yield (%) and ash content (%) were selected as response variables. The physicochemical, thermal, and structural properties of the optimized SDF were analyzed to evaluate its functional attributes and compared with those of conventionally extracted SDF (Control). The optimized extraction conditions (1:3 pretreated powder-to-vinegar ratio, 300 watts microwave power, and 10 min extraction time) yielded a high-quality SDF with desirable physicochemical properties, including superior water-holding (27.35 ± 1.23) and oil-holding (29.76 ± 1.08) capacity. The results of thermal analysis revealed enhanced thermal stability, while structural characterization confirmed the integrity of the fibre matrix. Overall, this study offers a green and efficient strategy for producing high-quality SDF from cauliflower stems, supporting its potential application as a value-added functional food ingredient.