Byproducts recovery from carrot juice processing: extraction of phytochemical compounds, encapsulation and application in biodegradable films

Abstract

This project consists in optimizing the extraction of phytochemical compounds from byproducts obtained after carrot (Daucus carota) juice processing, encapsulate the compounds and then incorporate them into chitosan biodegradable films. Thus, three steps will be followed: (i) initially, an experimental design (22) will be performed to optimize the extraction of phenolic compounds and carotenoids from the byproducts, using ethanol or vegetal oil concentration, respectively, and potency/time of ultrasound sonicator as independent variables. The quantification of total phenolic compounds will be performed by spectrophotometry and the identification of the compounds in the optimum condition will be evaluated by UPLC-MS. The quantification of carotenoids will be performed with the aid of HPLC; (ii) the active compounds present in the extracts obtained in the optimal condition will be encapsulated in quitosomes, hybrid systems composed by liposomes covered with chitosan, using sodium tripolyphosphate for ionotropic gelation. These samples will be analyzed according to particle size by dynamic light scattering and surface charge by zeta potential, Attenuated Total Reflection/Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, Raman microspectrometry and morphology (Confocal microscopy and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy); (iii) lastly, the encapsulate compounds with better stability will be incorporated into chitosan biodegradable films. The films will have their mechanical and function properties analyzed and the release of phytochemicals added to the polymeric matrix will be evaluated. (AU)