Liquid-Liquid Extraction of ß-Carotene from High-Oleic Palm Oil Derived from the Coari × La Mé Hybrid

This study evaluated ß-carotene extraction from crude high-oleic palm oil (HOPO) derived from the Coari × La Mé (OxG) hybrid using hexane, methanol, and ethanol. Hexane provided the highest extraction yield (41.5 ± 7.5%), but its economic, regulatory, and environmental limitations hinder large-scale implementation. Methanol achieved a moderate yield (8.3 ± 1.5%), though its high polarity restricted efficiency at higher concentrations. Ethanol, a green solvent, resulted in a lower yield (2.2 ± 1.5%) at a cost of 1.5 ± 0.3 USD/mg of ß-carotene, yet was considered the most promising option due to its lower toxicity, cost, and environmental impact. Consequently, ethanol was selected for further optimization using a full factorial design including oil-to-ethanol ratio, stirring time, and ultrasound exposure. The oil-to-ethanol ratio was the most influential parameter, achieving 11.8 ± 1.3% ß-carotene recovery at a 1:9 ratio and 5 min of stirring. Although ultrasound showed no significant individual effect, it enhanced interactive effects, improving overall process performance.