This paper evaluated methodologies for extracting phenolic compounds by DES (Deep eutectic solvents) associated with pectinlyase. Citrus pomace was characterized chemically, and seven DESs were formulated for extraction. Two groups of extractions were performed. Group 1 extractions were performed only with DESs, at 40 °C and 60 °C, with CPWP (Citrus pomace with pectin) and CPNP (Citrus pomace no pectin). In group 2, the DES was associated with pectinlyase and used only with CPWP at 60 °C in two ways of extraction: E1S (one-step extraction) and E2E (2-step extraction). The extracts were evaluated TPC (total phenolic compounds), individual phenolic compounds by HPLC, and antioxidant capacity by methodologies of DPPH and FRAP. The results of group 1 extractions for CPWP showed the highest phenolic compounds concentration (559.2 ± 2.79 mg/100 g DM) at 60 °C. Group 2 (E2S) showed high values of total phenolic compounds (615.63 ± 28.01 mg/100 g DM) and antioxidant activity (23,200 ± 721.69 µmol TE/g DM), with values higher than conventional extraction (545.96 ± 26.80 mg/100 g DM and 16,682.04 ± 2139 µmol TE/g DM). The study demonstrated the excellent extractive potential of DES for flavonoid extraction from citrus pomace. DES 1 and 5 by E2S showed the highest phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity values, mainly when associated with pectinlyase.
Keywords: betaine; cholin chloride; deep euthetic solvents; extraction; flavonoids; phenolic compounds.