Valorization of soursop (Annona muricata) seeds as alternative oil and protein source using novel de-oiling and protein extraction techniques

In this research, for the first time, valorization of soursop seeds, a poorly studied biomass, was investigated to simultaneously produce oil and proteins within biorefinery approach. A new mild protein extraction method (Pressurized Water Extraction, PWE) developed optimized via response surface methodology compared with conventional alkaline extraction. Furthermore, impact de-oiling technique, i.e., n-hexane or cold pressing, investigated. The extracted were evaluated in terms physicochemical composition, amino acid content, techno-functional properties. type technique found have minor impact. Instead, considerable differences observed between two methodologies. At conditions (pH 8.1 40 °C), PWE resulted more protein-rich extract (48 vs. 30 wt% water), better preservation higher solubility vitro digestibility. mixed behavior Emulsification holding capacity similar both techniques, while improved foaming after water This research showed that non-exploited seeds could be valuable source protein. Moreover, novel enables reduced on structure.