Natural and de-novo biosynthesized phyto-compounds have gained much significance because of their non-controversial nutritional, health and safety benefits as compared with chemically synthesized commercially rivalry antioxidants. However, none of natural de-novo biosynthesized phyto-compounds has been commercially available and used in customary food business and processing. In this study, efficacy of sesame seed extracts (SSEs) in stabilizing sunflower oil during storage has been studied. Fine powder of sesame seed was extracted in different solvents. The results showed that significant differences in extractability of different solvents and maximum extraction yield (29.48%) were achieved with methanol. The antioxidant components and capability of different extracts were further investigated and evaluated via total phenolic contents, DPPH radical scavenging activity and β-carotene/linoleic acid calorimetric assays respectively. Being highest in yield and antioxidant potential, methanolic extract was used; three different concentrations of SSE (500, 750, and 1000 μL) were added in 100 mL of sunflower oil to further evaluate its oxidative stability. Sensory and oxidative analysis of baked product from these groups was also evaluated.
Keywords: Natural antioxidants; Oxidative stability; Sesame seed extracts; Sunflower oil.