Can Ultrasonic Extraction Machine Extract Edible Oil From Plants?

Ultrasonic extraction machine is widely used to release valuable intracellular substances from plant materials. Target extracts include lipids/fatty acids, proteins, vitamins, polyphenols and other bioactive compounds. As a process intensification technology, ultrasonic extraction of edible oils, such as extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil, sunflower oil, linseed oil, etc., can increase the yield of extracted oil (fatty acids), shorten the extraction time and reduce or avoid the use of solvent consumption.

Edible oil extraction

As a non-thermal extraction technology, the working principle of ultrasound-assisted extraction is based on the phenomenon of acoustic cavitation. Acoustics, also known as ultrasonic cavitation, produces strong shear forces, which destroy cell walls and increase mass transfer between the cell interior and the surrounding solvent. Since ultrasound-assisted extraction is a non-thermal treatment method, thermal degradation of heat-sensitive nutritional compounds can be prevented. Ultrasonic extraction of edible oil at low temperature can avoid heat-induced decomposition of the extracted oil and minimize the loss of bioactive compounds. Ultrasonic extraction of high-quality edible oil has a higher yield and less processing time.

Olive oil extraction

Ultrasonic machines can be integrated into conventional olive oil production lines. Ultrasonic treatment of olive paste improves the performance of the extraction process, thereby increasing the extraction capacity of olive oil mills. Ultrasonic treatment is a fundamental step in the mechanical olive oil extraction process and can significantly improve this situation. The gelatinization efficiency depends on the rheological properties of the olive paste and the process parameters of gelatinization, such as time and temperature. These factors strongly affect the yield and quality of virgin olive oil.

When strong ultrasonic waves are applied to the olive paste, cavitation occurs. Cavitation refers to the formation, growth and collapse of gas bubbles in alternating pressure cycles. Ultrasonic cavitation destroys the cell structure, allows the release of soluble compounds from the olive plant tissue and improves mass transfer. Therefore, the extraction rate and yield are significantly improved by ultrasonic treatment. The oil from the ultrasonically treated olive paste also shows lower bitterness and higher tocopherol, chlorophyll and carotenoid content.

Ultrasonic treatment is a gentle, non-thermal food processing technology that releases oil and active compounds (e.g. antioxidants, phenols, vitamins) from the olive paste. The continuous in-line process of the olive paste through the ultrasonic cavitation zone allows for a very uniform treatment. Ultrasonication is also very beneficial for process temperature: it instantly heats and greatly reduces the preheating time of the olive paste, after which the process temperature can be easily maintained at the optimal process temperature (e.g. 28-30C).

Avocado Oil Extraction

Using an ultrasonic extraction machine to process avocado puree can increase avocado oil recovery by 15-24%. Ultrasonication aids the cold pressing of avocado oil by increasing oil yield. The non-heat pressing technique allows avocado oil to retain its valuable nutrients, flavorful aromatics, and intense emerald green color. Ultrasonication and extraction of avocado pulp improves oil release and potentially reduces the time of quenching in industrial avocado oil production without compromising quality.

Ultrasonic pressed avocado oil is carefully maintained, maintaining all of its healthy nutritional compounds such as vitamins, enzymes, micronutrients, and flavor components. Studies have shown that ultrasonication increases edible oil extraction and reduces extraction time while maintaining the high nutritional level of the vegetable oil.

Summary

Ultrasonic extraction can be used as a single method to extract edible oil from seeds and oil-rich fruits, or it can be integrated or retrofitted into conventional existing edible oil production equipment to improve oil yield and quality. Ultrasonic extraction equipment is easy to install and requires only a small space (small footprint), so it can be retrofitted into existing oil plants. Industrial ultrasonic extraction machines are rugged and industrial-grade, and can operate 24/7 under heavy loads and harsh environments.