Potential Extraction Techniques for the Extraction of Phenolic Compounds from Dates
摘要
Date fruits (Phoenix dactylifera L.) referred to as the “tree of life” because of their wide range of medicinal properties. In recent years, the cultivation and use of date palms have grown considerably due to their ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions such as extreme heat, limited water availability, and high soil and water salinity. This chapter aims to provide a comprehensive overview of three key extraction techniques: solvent extraction, enzymatic extraction, and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) in order to extract bioactive phenolic compounds from date fruits. The extraction process plays a crucial role in both the quantitative and qualitative analysis of phenolic compounds, as an improper method can compromise their functional properties. Conventional techniques, including hot and cold extraction, present several drawbacks such as reduced product quality, safety concerns, high energy consumption, and potential environmental hazards. Modern methods like ultrasound-assisted extraction have gained significant attention in recent years for obtaining phenolic-rich extracts from plant sources. However, challenges related to optimizing the extraction process persist. Enzymatic extraction is a biotechnological method that utilizes specific enzymes to break down plant cell walls, improving the release of bioactive compounds like phenolics. It offers an eco-friendly and selective alternative to conventional solvent extraction methods, improving the yield and purity of phenolic compounds. Solvent extraction is one of the most widely used methods to isolate phenolic compounds from plant matrices, including dates. The efficiency of chemical extraction is significantly influenced by the choice of solvents, as different solvent polarities affect the yield of extracted compounds. In conclusion, this chapter aims to provide valuable insights for researchers and industry professionals working on the valorization of date fruits and their phenolic-rich extracts.