Novel strategies for valorizing red araça pomace: Cyanidin-rich extracts recovery and sustainable bioenergy production

Abstract

This study investigates the valorization of red araçá pomace (RAP) from Easter Island (Rapa Nui) for extracting cyanidin-rich antioxidants and generating bioenergy. Using a UHPLC-PDA system, we characterized the extractable pigments, optimizing extraction conditions with bio-based solvents to achieve a maximum yield of 2.70 mg/L of cyanidin-3-O-glucoside, which constituted approximately 98 % of the extract. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH and FRAP assay, revealing a strong antioxidant capacity. Additionally, pyrolysis of the residual colorless biomass indicated significant energy recovery potential, with thermodynamic analysis showing an energy difference of less than 4.67 kJ/mol between activation energy and enthalpy. This pioneering research highlights the dual benefits of utilizing RAP for health-promoting compounds while addressing waste management through sustainable bioenergy solutions.