Work

Ultrasound-assisted enrichment of argan oil (Argania spinosa L.) with thyme (Thymus vulgaris L), oregano (Origanum vulgare L.) and saffron (Crocus sativus L.) powders: Impact on bioactive compounds and oxidative stability

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study deals with the ultrasonic enrichment of argan oil using oregano, thyme and saffron powders in order to improve its bioactive compounds and nutritional properties. Once enriched, a series of characterizations were carried out, namely: Total phenolic content, antioxidant activities (FRAP and DPPH • ) and the scanning electron microscopy for the plant powders used before and after treatment. Samples were also subjected to accelerated ageing for 120 days at 60 °C and quality indices were monitored every 30 days (Free fatty acids, peroxide value, p -anisidine value and total oxidation). The induction period by Rancimat and fatty acids were also assessed. The results show a significant improvement in antioxidant activity and polyphenol content. This Innovative, fast, and straightforward approach not only improves the functional profile of argan oil, but also offers a long shelf-life, since the quality index values presented by the enriched oils are significantly less intense than those of the non-enriched oil. After 120 days of accelerated ageing, the peroxide value of unenriched argan oil presented an amount of 36.50 ± 1.50, while minimum values of 17.44 ± 1.00 and 15.22 ± 0.04 mEq O 2 /kg were recorded by enriched argan oils with saffron at 0.2 and 0.5 % respectively.

Source: Ultrasonics Sonochemistry

DOI: 10.1016/j.ultsonch.2025.107412