OPTIMIZING THE EXTRACTION OF GLOBE ARTICHOKE WASTES

The globe artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) is a traditional food in the Mediterranean diet. Many studies have demonstrated its therapeutic effects, which are principally linked to the presence of polyphenolic compounds. The by-products of artichoke processing, such as stems and outer bracts, are usually used for animal food. The aim of this study is to valorize these wastes by developing an efficient and cheap solid-liquid extraction process for recovery of their bioactive ingredients. Along with determination of optimal process parameters for extraction of maximum vegetal matter, the latter is analyzed for some bioactive components (polyphenols and flavonoids), which possess antioxidant activity. The extracts can be used for pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications, or for functional food additives.