Advancements in Supercritical Fluid Extraction for Enhancing Bioavailability of Food-Derived Polyphenols

Abstract

Introduction: Polyphenols are bioactive compounds found in plant-based foods, known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Despite their numerous health benefits, their low bioavailability due to poor solubility and rapid metabolism limits their effectiveness. Conventional extraction methods often result in low yields and degradation of bioactive compounds. Supercritical Fluid Extraction (SFE) has emerged as a green, efficient technology to extract polyphenols while preserving their structural integrity.

Objectives: This study aims to optimize SFE conditions—including pressure, temperature, and co-solvent selection—to maximize polyphenol recovery. Additionally, nanoencapsulation techniques such as liposomes and polymeric nanoparticles are explored to enhance solubility, stability, and absorption of extracted polyphenols.

Methods: SFE was conducted under varying conditions of pressure (100–400 bar), temperature (35–80°C), and co-solvent (ethanol, methanol, water) to identify the optimal extraction parameters. Extracted polyphenols were characterized using HPLC, FTIR, and UV-Vis spectroscopy. To improve bioavailability, nanoencapsulation techniques—including liposomal encapsulation and polymeric nanoparticles—were employed. In-vitro digestion models were used to evaluate the stability and absorption of encapsulated polyphenols.

Results: Optimized SFE conditions (300 bar pressure, 50°C, and ethanol as a co-solvent) resulted in the highest polyphenol recovery and purity compared to conventional methods. Nanoencapsulation enhanced solubility (2.3-fold) and antioxidant retention (1.8-fold), significantly improving bioavailability. In-vitro studies confirmed that encapsulated polyphenols exhibited greater stability and intestinal absorption than non-encapsulated counterparts.

Conclusions: This study highlights SFE as a sustainable extraction method that improves polyphenol yield while maintaining bioactivity. The integration of nanoencapsulation further enhances solubility and bioavailability, making polyphenols more effective for functional food and nutraceutical applications. Future research should focus on scalability, cost-effectiveness, and clinical validation of these techniques for commercial applications.