Alternative and emerging technologies for saponin extraction and purification and their potential applications

García Bustos K.A.; Heredia Rondón O.; Florez Martinez E.; Aguilar Morón B.; Tejada Meza K.; Colina Andrade G.J.; Terán Hilares R. · Food and Bioproducts Processing (2026) · DOI: 10.1016/j.fbp.2026.03.012

Resumen

Saponins are versatile glycosidic compounds widely distributed in plants, valued for their amphiphilic structure and diverse bioactive and functional properties. These features enable their application across multiple industries, including agriculture, cosmetics, detergents, and mining. This review provides an updated overview of plant-based sources of saponins, with particular emphasis on agro-industrial residues mainly Chenopodium quinoa residues as sustainable raw materials. It examines non-conventional extraction methods frequently reported as process intensification strategies, such as ultrasound-assisted extraction, hydrodynamic cavitation, and related emerging technologies. Purification techniques, including membrane separation and liquid–liquid extraction, are also discussed, with attention to their potential for industrial scale-up. In addition, recent advances in microbial fermentation for enhancing saponin purity are highlighted. Overall, this work aims to support the development of sustainable and scalable strategies for the efficient extraction and purification of saponins, thereby promoting their broader application across various sectors.

Instituciones: Universidad Católica de Santa María