DOI: https://doi.org/10.55373/mjchem.v24i3.29

Keywords: Green technology; Vanilla planifolia; microwave-assisted extraction; microwave pre-treatment; ultrasound-assisted extraction; Fe-TAML/H2O2

Abstract

Vanilla is the most popular flavour in the world, especially in the food industry. Vanillin is obtained from the ‘Vanilla planifolia’ orchid plant. Since non-synthetic vanilla is more expensive than the synthetic alternative, the availability of fake vanilla extracts has increased in the market. Green technology is an alternative method to produce vanillin from vanilla pods and leaves with minimal energy consumption. In this paper, several non-conventional green methods to extract vanillin are reviewed, such as Microwave-Assisted Extraction (MAE), Microwave Pre-treatment (MW), Ultrasound Technology and Subcritical Water Extraction (SWE), and the advantages and limitations of each technique are discussed. Since these methods have some limitations, the green catalyst oxidation system is introduced as a safer method to treat the leaves to obtain a higher purity and better quality product. This new class of catalysts can destroy some of the worst pollutants before they get into the environment. ‘Green catalysts’ (Fe-TAML/H2O2) are used to recover natural compounds as an alternative to conventional methods and can prevent the formation of hazardous substances and clean-up steps. This review investigates various methods for recovering vanillin from the leaves of Vanilla planifolia through sustainable green technology using the green catalyst as an oxidation system. Overall, MAE was found to be the best method for extracting vanillin from Vanilla planifolia.