Application of QuEChERS method for extraction of functional compounds

Abstract

Barberry has valuable compounds with high functional properties such as berberine. In this study, the QuEChERS method was applied for the extraction of berberine, phenolic, and antioxidant compounds of B.integerrima stem and compared with the maceration method. Also, the standard QuEChERS was modified to improve the extraction efficiency and application of this method in the food industries. The majority of the changes in the modified QuEChERS methods were the type of solvent, and removing salts and sorbents in the procedure. The average recovery of berberine was more efficient in maceration in comparison with the QuEChERS method. However, the ethanolic QuEChERS method had a positive effect on the extraction of phenolic compounds in comparison with the other applied methods. The modified QuEChERS method had a better yield to extract the phenolic compounds than the extraction of berberine compounds.