Real-Time Monitoring and Modeling of Classical Solvent and Ultrasound Assisted Extraction of Wild Bilberry Bioactive Compounds

Abstract

Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) stands out as a functional food rich in three main bioactive compounds: flavonoids, polyphenols, and anthocyanins, offering numerous health benefits to consumers. The objective of this study was to investigate the kinetic data of these compounds simultaneously throughout conventional solvent extraction (CSE) and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) processes using a real-time spectral monitoring system and to determine the effects of two different extraction methods on the extraction efficiency and end point. In this context, the continuous kinetic data obtained were analyzed and modeled with various mathematical model equations. The results revealed that the highest total phenol content was measured as 4.20 mg GaEq g⁻¹ fw, total flavonoid content was measured as 3.88 QEq g⁻¹ fw, and total anthocyanin content was measured as 5.15 mg CynEq g⁻¹ fw under all conditions tested. Moreover, the UAE method demonstrated superior efficiency in quickly extracting these components and reaching equilibrium. Among the six kinetic models, the modified Peleg model was determined to be the most suitable for both CSE and UAE. This study provides valuable insights on the impacts of extraction methods on the three main groups, solvent selectivity, and matrix-component-solvent interactions in optimizing extraction processes for maximizing the yield of bioactive compounds from bilberries, thus contributing to the development of more efficient and sustainable industrial food production practices.