New green extraction approach for the isolation of Phytosterols from canola oil deodorizer distillate.

Canola oil deodorizer distillate (CODD) is a low value by-product from canola oil, rich in bioactives. We explored the extraction of phytosterols from hot-pressed and cold-pressed CODD. Operational parameters were optimized for a hot saponification procedure and utilizing fractional precipitation. A feed-to-solvent ratio of 1:10 (w/v) was optimal, and saponification was performed at 80 °C for 1 h. Preferential solubility of phytosterols in ethanol allowed effective elimination of impurities, especially hydrocarbons while a washing procedure eliminated terpenes. Phytosterols yield were 8.7 ± 0.2 % at 86 % purity and 8.3 ± 0.3 % at 76 % purity for hot-pressed and cold-pressed CODD, respectively. The extraction and washing of phytosterols were performed using food-grade solvents. For a cold saponification procedure at ambient temperature (21-22 °C), a feed-to-solvent ratio of 1:9 was adapted. Phytosterols yield was 8.5 % at 85 % purity. Bioactive composition were as follows; β-sitosterol ∼40 %, campesterol ∼33 %, brassicasterol ∼22 %, and stigmasterol ≤1 %.