Recovery of phytochemical compounds from the aqueous extract remaining after enzymatic extraction of sesame oil using cellulase and pepsin

Abstract

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is rich in phytochemicals like phenolic compounds, lignans, and vitamins. Enzymatic extraction enhances the oil yield, yet its aqueous by-product is often discarded. The oil yields were 18.35% for the control, 25.86% for cellulase, and 21.83% for pepsin, with cellulase achieving the highest yield. This study evaluated the nutritional value of that extract using pepsin and cellulase. Total phenols in pepsin- and cellulase-treated samples were 52.9 and 37.3 mg/100 g (as gallic acid) and flavonoids were 29.65 and 12.24 mg/100 g (as quercetin), higher than the control (p < 0.05). Antioxidant capacities were 76.89%, 65.59%, and 60.77% for cellulase, pepsin, and control (p < 0.05), respectively. Enzyme treatment enhanced phenolic release and antioxidant activity. Carbohydrate and protein levels increased significantly, peaking in pepsin-treated samples (0.93 g/100 g and 88.84 mg/100 g, respectively). Pepsin hydrolyzes proteins and releases carbohydrates. Vitamin and pigment contents varied according to enzymes and reaction conditions. This study showed that sesame oil's enzymatic aqueous extract contains valuable bioactive compounds for use in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.