In recent years, the pursuit of sustainable practices in science and industry has led to remarkable innovations. Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADES) are among these – a fascinating class of green solvents that are transforming the way we extract valuable bioactive compounds from plants, algae aquatic plants, and other natural resources.
What are NADES?
NADES are a special mixture of natural ingredients – such as sugars, organic acids, amino acids, and others – combined to form liquids capable of extracting a wide range of compounds. Unlike traditional solvents, which can be toxic or harmful to the environment, NADES are:
- Eco-friendly: They are made from renewable, non-toxic materials.
- Efficient: NADES can extract compounds more effectively than conventional solvents in many cases.
- Versatile: They are tailor-made, meaning you can mix specific components to target different compounds.
Why use NADES for extraction?
The food and pharmaceutical industries often rely on bioactive compounds—such as antioxidants, pigments, and essential oils—for their beneficial properties. However, traditional extraction methods frequently involve solvents that are harmful to both health and the environment. NADES, on the other hand, provide a cleaner and safer alternative due to:
- Better extraction yields: Studies show that NADES often outperform conventional solvents in extracting bioactives like flavonoids and phenolics.
- Increased stability: They help preserve the extracted compounds, keeping them potent for longer periods.
- Direct use: Since many NADES are food-grade, the extracts can often be used directly in products without additional purification.
Within the scope of the IMPRESS project, NADES enable the transformation of algae and other aquatic plants into high-value nutraceutical ingredients by efficiently extracting antioxidants, pigments, and other bioactive compounds. These natural additives support the development of innovative, clean-label food products that align with the latest consumer trends.
Redefining sustainability with NADES?
Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents are opening new possibilities for a more sustainable approach to extraction. By combining efficiency with environmental consciousness, they mark a significant advancement in aligning industrial practices with the principles of green chemistry.
However, while promising to reduce environmental impact, NADES are still being optimised for large-scale industrial applications. Challenges remain in fully understanding their toxicity and environmental impact.
The IMPRESS project, through its research utilising NADES for extracting bioactive compounds from algae and aquatic plants, aims to bridge existing gaps in knowledge and application. Our goal is to harness their immense potential to pave the way for a greener future – from creating cleaner products to revolutionising food, nutraceuticals, and other bio-based products.
The article was written by FINS
