Integration of ultrasound-assisted extraction and deep eutectic solvent for enhanced recovery of bioactive compounds: Innovative green approach

• Ultrasonic energy promotes cavitation and microstreaming within the DES. • UAE facilitates cell wall disruption and releases target compounds from solid matrices. • DESs are greener and more sustainable due to their biodegradability and low toxicity. • Integrating DES with UAE preserves bioactivity of heat-sensitive compounds. The use of Deep Eutectic Solvents (DESs) in conjunction with advanced extraction techniques, such as ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), can significantly enhance the effectiveness, specificity, and environmental friendliness of extraction procedures. Ultrasound can induce cavitation and microstreaming in the DES, which facilitates the solvent's penetration of the matrix and the liberation of target compound from solid substrates. This augmented mass transfer can result in increased extraction yields and shorter extraction times compared to traditional approaches. DESs are environmentally friendly and sustainable alternatives to traditional solvents due to their ability to degrade naturally, low toxicity levels, and renewable constituents. This review analyzes the process of extracting bioactive compounds from agro-industrial food waste using eco-friendly solvents and the integration of UAE and DESs for their enhanced recovery. Additionally, it encompassed the utilization of UAE and DESs to enhance the beneficial properties of bioactive compounds, such as antioxidants, antimicrobials, and antibacterial agents, as well as the potential viability of using these emerging solvents with UAE for the extraction process. Therefore, by leveraging the distinctive characteristics of DESs and the mechanical impact of ultrasound, this combined method can transform the extraction process, enabling the creation of environmentally friendly and effective extraction methods for food processing.