Optimization of ultrasonic extraction conditions using response surface methodology: total phenolic content of bee pollen

Bee pollen plays a significant role in bee nutrition, bee population sustainability, pollination processes, and its health and nutritional benefits for humans. It contains protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, offering valuable nutritional properties. The total phenolic content (TPC) is an important parameter in determining the nutritional and health value of pollen. The presence of high levels of phenolic compounds in pollen enhances their health benefits and can provide protective effects against diseases by combating oxidative stress. In the study, ultrasonic extraction conditions for pollen were optimized using the Response Surface Method to maximize TPC. The experimental study was designed according to Box-Behnken design: 30–70% ethanol ratio, 5–15 min of extraction time, and 10–20% ultrasonic amplitude modulation (AM). The TPC of the obtained extracts were determined using the Folin-Ciocalteu procedure. The optimal extraction conditions were predicted as 60.012% ethanol ratio, 11.054 min, and 19.160% AM for reaching 9.572 mg/GAE g extract.