Optimization and characterization of peach kernel oil extraction using supercritical fluid extraction

In the current peach kernel oil (PKO) production, several challenges persist, including the excessive use of organic solvents, sample heating loss, and difficulties in solute separation. The aim of this study was to establish an efficient and eco-friendly supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) method for the extraction of PKO. Oil composition and physicochemical properties were used to evaluate the quality of PKO from different extraction methods. Furthermore, a model of human hair follicle keratinocytes (HHFKs) damage induced by H 2 O 2 was established to investigate the antioxidant activity of PKO. The results showed that the yield of PKO under the optimal conditions of SFE could reach 46.44 ± 0.46 %, which was higher than that obtained via Microwave Assisted Extraction (MAE) and lower than that achieved with Soxhlet Extraction (SE). However, PKO obtained via SFE exhibits higher content of linoleic acid, oleic acid, stearic acid and palmitic acid, as well as higher contents of total flavonoids (TFs) and total phenols (TPs). In terms of physicochemical properties, PKO obtained via SFE exhibits a higher melting point, lower rancidity, and lower risk of degradation compared to the other methods. At the cellular level, PKO could effectively protect HHFKs from oxidative damage. By employing SFE technology in PKO production, high-quality plant oils with significant antioxidant potential can be obtained, which is of great significance for the future development and application of PKO related products. • Optimization of SFE conditions for PKO by response surface methodology. • PKO obtained by SFE has higher oxidative stability compared with SE and MAE. • SFE gives higher FA, TF and TP contents than SE and MAE of PKO. • PKO obtained by SFE had a protective effect on human hair follicle keratinocytes cells.