Optimization of β-Carotene Extraction from Tucumã Fruit ( <i>Astrocaryum aculeatum</i> ) Using Ionic Liquids: Evaluation of Efficiency, Thermal and Light Stability

This study aimed to optimize the extraction of β-carotene from the pulp of tucumã (<i>Astrocaryum aculeatum</i>), an Amazonian fruit rich in bioactive compounds, using the ionic liquid [C₄mim]-[BF₄] as a sustainable alternative to conventional acetone extraction. Using a central composite design, the optimal extraction conditions were determined: a solid-to-liquid ratio of 1:5, 10 min of extraction time, and 65.5 W of power. The [C₄mim]-[BF₄] method achieved a higher yield (12.10 mg/100 g) than acetone (8.75 mg/100 g), with greater thermal and photolytic stability. In an oily medium at 90 °C, the extract exhibited a half-life of 3466 min, and colorimetric analysis indicated reduced color degradation, confirming its potential as a stable natural colorant. Toxicity tests revealed low toxicity in all samples against <i>Artemia salina</i> larvae, with [C₄mim]-[BF₄] showing no significant lethal effects, whereas the acetone extract exhibited higher activity (LC₅₀ = 682.32 μg/mL) and the positive control, lapachol, displayed high toxicity (LC₅₀ = 33.51 μg/mL). Predictive PASS analysis indicated that β-carotene and α-carotene have high probabilities of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and free radical scavenging activities, while lutein demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antihepatotoxic, and cardioprotective potential. In all cases, Pa values exceeded Pi values, confirming the pharmacological feasibility of the compounds. Thus, [C₄mim]-[BF₄] is a green, efficient, and safe alternative for the extraction and stabilization of carotenoids from tucumã, with potential applications in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries.