A study of the methods of carotenoid extraction in carrots using supercritical fluid extraction (sfe) and conventional methods
The carrot (Daucus carota L. is a plant of the Umbelliferae family. It produces an aromatic and edible root, and is one of the most widely cultivated vegetable in Brazil. It represents the main source of plant origin, pro vitamin A carotenoids, especially a and b carotene, and is also a great source of dietary fiber, antioxidants and minerals. This study aimed to evaluate two methods of extraction of b carotene, supercritical fluid (SFE) and conventional, and to examine the proximate composition of the carrot in nature. The contents of b carotene obtained by SFE and by conventional extraction were 2,457 and 2,455 ug/100g, respectively. The average values found for the dry matter of the carrot were: dry matter 8.9% ether extract 0.29% ashes 8.11% crude fiber 14.57% crude protein 6,4% non nitrogen extract 6.3% and caloric value 27.7 kcal. It is concluded that the extraction of carotenoids using the supercritical fluid is a viable separation technique since this fluid is inert and does not generate waste or final environmental waste. It can be concluded from the levels found that carrots are good sources of fiber, present high moisture content and low fat, ash and calorific value.