Interfacial activity of phenolic-rich extracts from avocado fruit waste: Influence on the colloidal and oxidative stability of emulsions and nanoemulsions

The effects of phenolic-rich extracts from avocado peels (AP) and seeds (AS) on the colloidal and the lipid oxidative stability of oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions/nanoemulsions were evaluated. For this purpose, the interfacial tension (IFT) of avocado oil droplets in the presence of extracts and surfactants (low methoxyl pectin, LMP; Tween 80, T80), individually or combined, was assessed. Individually, T80 led to the lowest IFT values (4.25 ? 0.02 mN/m), followed by AS and AP extracts (9.27 ? 0.86 mN/m and 12.31 ? 0.10 mN/m, respectively) and LMP (14.88 ? 0.05 mN/m). Regarding particle size, the emulsions containing AP and AS extracts were smaller (1.45 ? 0.10 ?m and 1.11 ? 0.03 ?m, respectively), and stabler, than blank emulsions (4.05 ? 0.51 ?m). Conversely, the extracts, especially AS extract, reduced the stability of nanoemulsions causing a 24-fold particle size increase. Nevertheless, AP and AS extracts reduced the formation of secondary oxidation products in emulsions/nanoemulsions. These findings provide novel insights into the potential use of avocado waste.

Automated summary

Phenolic-rich extracts from avocado peels and seeds showed positive effects on the stability of oil-in-water emulsions, reducing oxidation products formation. However, the extracts could lead to instability in nanoemulsions. These findings suggest a potential application of avocado waste.