Phytonext Offers More Efficient Extraction and Better Quality of Essential Oils From Citrus

26 Aug 2014 --- With the mild extraction technology of Phytonext it is possible to win essential oils from citrus peel in just 1 or 2 steps. Until now it was only possible to obtain these oils without off fragrances by means of a complex and costly process. Also there was a big chance of residues from the solvents in the end product. Due to the mild Phytonext treatment, the volatile aroma components are preserved, without any risk of residues. Citrus, especially the oil from the peel is an important aroma in the cosmetic and food industry.

Phytonext is constantly looking for valuable ingredients on which the technology can be applied. The company sees potential for citrus peel, because of the large waste streams that exist. In the juice producing industry, for example, they are thrown into the digester after squeezing. This is a waste, as the available oils in de peels are not made to use that way.

With current extraction methods, the peel must first be squeezed for the oil. Then the oil must be cleaned up so that it is free of unstable substances that can cause off fragrances. This cleaning up is often done with a solvent, which increases the risk of residues in the final product. With Phytonext the oil can be obtained directly from the peel, making the process faster and cheaper. Due to the mild selection no residues remain and the substance maintains its pure form.
 
In addition, the mild process makes it possible to capture the extract’s high, volatile aromas, also called the top notes. The ‘aromatic bouquet’ of an aroma consists of different notes. The bass notes are the aromas that last the longest and are least volatile. The top notes are the most volatile and thus disappear the quickest during extraction. Because Phytonext can control the temperature at a low level during extraction, the volatilization of the aroma components is minimized.
 
The result is a natural aroma of a better quality, without off fragrances that can be obtained in a more efficient and economical way. This applies not only for citrus but also for numerous other plant materials.