Natural Deep Eutectic Solvent (NADES) as a Greener Alternative for the Extraction of Hydrophilic (Polar) and Lipophilic (Non-Polar) Phytonutrients

Phytonutrients extracted from natural resources are receiving much attention among researchers due to their highly antioxidative characteristics which prevent several degenerative diseases including cardiovascular diseases and cancers. These nutraceutical compounds can be used in food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic products as natural antioxidants, preservatives, colourings and functional foods. Though much works have been reported on the extraction process, there are concerns on the health and safety risks posed by the commonly used organic solvents derived from petrochemical industry. Thus, there is a need to recover the phytonutrients using green, sustainable, efficient and low cost solvents that are safe for human consumption. This work discusses natural deep eutectic solvent (NADES) as a potential solvent to extract both polar and non-polar phytonutrients simultaneously from natural resources. Previous attempts (in the most recent 3 years) to make use of NADES as an extractant to obtain phytonutrients are presented. The synthesis process of NADES and current challenges when employing NADES are also being reviewed.