A study in Pakistan shows essential oil from sweet orange peels has possible applications in food preservation and oncology.
The study authors are Mahnoor Syed, Saeeda Fatima and Muhammad Bilal Sadiq with Forman Christian College and Moazzam Ali and Khadija Rashid with the University of the Punjab.
The research expands the horizons of the way waste materials in the food industry are perceived. Citrus peels, which are usually discarded, hold valuable chemical compounds that can be harnessed for various applications.
The authors extracted the essential oils from sweet orange peels and analyzed their chemical composition. They utilized advanced techniques such as gas chromatography-mass spectrometry to identify the various phytochemicals present in the oil. This analysis revealed a complex mixture of compounds, many of which are known for their antimicrobial capacities.
One key finding of the research is the antimicrobial activity exhibited by the sweet orange peel essential oil. The study experimented with several bacterial strains and found that the oil demonstrated significant inhibitory effects. This offers a promising alternative to synthetic preservatives commonly used in the food industry.
Exploring the food preservation potential further, the researchers examined how the sweet orange peel oil could prolong the shelf life of perishable food items.
The cytotoxic potential of sweet orange peel essential oil also surfaced in the study. The authors conducted assays to assess the oil’s effects on cancer cells, leading to promising results that suggest possible applications in oncology. The research indicates that certain components within the essential oil may impede the growth of malignant cells.
The study has implications for consumers. The research provides insight into the benefits of consuming products derived from citrus peels.
In conclusion, this study challenges preconceived notions about food waste and illuminates pathways for future research in sustainable practices.
Learn more about the study here.
Source: Bioengineer.org
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