Sustainable extraction of bioactive compounds: Engineering principles and technologies

There is an increasing demand for sustainable extraction technologies capable of efficiently isolating bioactive compounds from complex food matrices due to the rising interest in nutraceutical products. Traditional extraction procedures that use conventional solvents have big problems (environmental impact, solvent toxicity, and high energy consumption). Green extraction technologies are safer and more environmentally friendly options following the rules of green chemistry. This review provides a comprehensive overview of green extraction strategies applied to food matrices. Their methods, benefits, and process efficiency are examined through the impact of food matrix structure on extraction performance. Special focus is placed on the use of food-grade and alternative solvents, which enhance extraction efficiency while providing safety and environmental sustainability. In conclusion, green extraction technologies contribute to waste valorization, whereas they facilitate the efficient manufacture of high-quality functional components. So, this approach makes them a feasible strategy for the sustainable recovery of nutraceutical compounds.