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Enhanced extraction of the liquid content from the pineapple stem with PEF technology

In the quest for more efficient and sustainable extraction methods, a recent test done in OptiCepts lab has highlighted the promising potential of Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) technology for bromelain extraction from pineapple stems. Bromelain, a valuable enzyme used in various industries, particularly in food and pharmaceuticals, is traditionally extracted through methods that often compromise yield or require significant energy input.


  

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What is Bromelain?

Bromelain is a group of enzymes found in pineapples, particularly in the fruit, stem, and juice. Bromelain is most commonly extracted from the stem of the pineapple, although it is also present in the fruit. It is available in supplement form as tablets, capsules, or powders. It is known for its ability to break down proteins, making it a popular meat tenderizer and a subject of interest in various medical and therapeutic applications.

 

Uses and Benefits:

 

  1. Digestive Aid: Bromelain is often used as a dietary supplement to aid digestion, especially for those who have difficulty digesting proteins.
  2. Anti-inflammatory Properties: It has anti-inflammatory effects and is sometimes used to reduce swelling, particularly in conditions like arthritis or after surgery.
  3. Wound Healing: Bromelain has been studied for its potential to promote wound healing and reduce bruising and inflammation after injuries.
  4. Immune System Support: Some studies suggest that bromelain may have immune-boosting effects, potentially helping the body fight infections.
  5. Potential Cancer Treatment: There is ongoing research into the potential of bromelain to inhibit cancer cell growth, although more studies are needed to confirm these effects.

 

In conclusion, Bromelain causes the body to make substances that fight pain and swelling. Bromelain also contains chemicals that seem to interfere with tumor cells and slow blood clotting.

Pineapple Plant, Bromelain is extracted from the stem
Bromelain is an enzyme extract derived from the stems of pineapples, although it exists in all parts of the fresh plant and fruit.

What is Pulsed Electric Field) PEF?

PEF technology involves applying short bursts of high-voltage electric fields to plant materials, which disrupts cell membranes and enhances the extraction of valuable components like enzymes. Unlike conventional methods, PEF is a non-thermal technique, preserving the activity of heat-sensitive compounds such as bromelain. This technology boosts extraction efficiency and supports energy conservation and sustainability.

Learn more about PEF here >>

The impact of OptiCepts technology in Pineapple products

OptiCepts PEF and vacuum infusion (VI) technologies have been shown to have an impact on pineapple in a wide range of variations.

 

Firstly, with PEF, it is possible to increase the extraction of juice and reduce the drying time for dried pineapple.

 

Moreover, combining PEF and VI can soften pineapple slices and make them juicier. Now, with the latest developments with optimized extraction of juice for the stem, OptiCepts technologies can truly be implemented from “farm to fork” when it comes to pineapple.

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The test demonstrated that PEF treatment significantly improved the yield of liquid supernatant, containing active bromelain, from pineapple stems, which yielded up to 40% more extract than traditional methods.

Key Findings – more than 40% increased yield

The PEF assisted extraction of pineapple juice for the stem showed significant increase
  • Increased Yield: The test demonstrated that PEF treatment significantly improved the yield of liquid supernatant, containing active bromelain, from pineapple stems. For instance, using PEF with an energy density ranging from to15 kJ/kg, the moisture content in the pineapple stem was reduced from 75% to 47.5%, resulting in over 39% more yield compared to the control.

 

  • Optimal Conditions: Various trials under different energy densities and press (pressures) revealed that the most effective conditions involved pressing the stems momentarily after PEF treatment. These conditions yielded up to 40% more extract than traditional methods.

 

  • Quality of Extracts: The PEF-treated extracts exhibited a higher concentration of solids and Brix levels (a measure of sugar content), making them more concentrated and potentially more valuable in commercial applications.

 

  • Scalability: The study also addressed the scalability of this method, suggesting that industrial applications could achieve processing capacities of up to 9.4 tons per hour with a 70% fill grade, depending on the energy density applied.

Conclusion

PEF technology presents a viable, energy-efficient alternative for the extraction of bromelain from pineapple stems. By enhancing yield and preserving enzyme activity, PEF could replace traditional methods, making the process more sustainable and cost-effective. While the study results are promising, further research and industrial trials will be necessary to optimize the process and fully realize its potential in large-scale applications.

 

This innovative approach marks a significant step forward in the field of bio-extraction, promising not only higher efficiency but also alignment with growing environmental and sustainability goals.

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