Unlocking the golden secrets of Calamansi (Citrofortunella microcarpa), a research team led by Prof. Dr. Thanit Praneenararat has pioneered a high-efficiency, eco-friendly path to extracting its hidden antioxidants. While this tiny citrus powerhouse—famed for its signature orange-lime zest—is a rising star in product development, its specific carotenoid profile remained a mystery until the team utilized ultrasound technology paired with sustainable “green” solvents like menthol-camphor and even common edible oils. Optimized through Response Surface Methodology (RSM), this breakthrough not only identified key compounds like lutein, beta-cryptoxanthin, and their derivatives via LC-MS analysis, but also proved that high-value extraction can be both sustainable and superior to traditional methods, setting a new “Green Chemistry” standard for the future of local agricultural innovation.
- Worakan Chutakool
- Kitipong Assatarakul
- Kanet Wongravee
- Thanit Praneenararat