The 4th Athens Conference Advances in Chemistry (ACAC 2024) provided the perfect platform for EXCEL4MED to present groundbreaking research in sustainable food production.
The conference, held from 6-8 November 2024 at the Aristotelis Congress Center in Athens, brought together researchers, academics and technology experts from around the globe to exchange ideas and foster collaborations in advanced chemistry.
EXCEL4MED coordinator, the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, shared our research on the “Application of Response Surface Methodology for the Optimisation of Natural Compounds’ Extraction from Pomegranate Seed Oil Using Acoustic Cavitation Technology”.
Our study focuses on developing an eco-friendly ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) process for maximising oil yield and preserving the total phenolic content in pomegranate seed oil (PSO).
This innovative approach aligns with EXCEL4MED’s mission to promote sustainable practices and reduce waste in Mediterranean food supply chains.
Key insights from our research
- Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction (UAE): the study demonstrates how UAE enhances oil yield and retains bioactive compounds from PSO, offering a sustainable solution for the food industry.
- Optimisation through Response Surface Methodology (RSM): by fine-tuning parameters like ethanol-water ratio, extraction time and solvent-to-solid ratio, we achieved maximum oil yield while preserving key nutrients.
- Analytical validation: techniques such as UHPLC-QTOF-MS and GC-FID revealed the richness of PSO in polyphenols and essential fatty acids, underscoring its potential for sustainable applications in food production.
EXCEL4MED research not only highlights the potential of PSO as a sustainable resource but also underscores how innovative technologies like UAE can transform waste into high-value products.
About ACAC 2024
ACAC 2024, organised by the Department of Chemistry at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, commemorates over 100 years of groundbreaking research.
The conference brought together a vibrant community of academics, researchers and students to discuss the latest advances in chemistry across multidisciplinary fields.
Through plenary lectures, contributed talks and poster presentations, ACAC 2024 provided an inspiring atmosphere for fostering collaboration and innovation.
Events like ACAC 2024 provide valuable opportunities to share our progress and inspire further innovation.
EXCEL4MED continues to lead efforts to create sustainable and innovative solutions for Mediterranean food supply chains – stay tuned!