Extraction and Industrial Applications of Macro Molecules: A Review

Abstract

Macromolecules, large molecules composed of repeating subunits called monomers, play a crucial role in living organisms, performing diverse functions such as energy storage, structural support, information storage and transfer, and catalysis of chemical reactions. Carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids are the four major classes of biological macromolecules. Extracting macromolecules from natural resources is critical in developing analytical processes and subsequent fortified products. Public awareness has grown due to using natural resources for environmental preservation and sustainable development. Extraction might be the first step in developing analytical methods and give room to product development. However, conventional techniques use organic solvents like acetone, ethanol, methanol, and ethyl acetate along with heated or boiling water. As a result, high temperatures and lengthy extraction times are produced when procedures like maceration, percolation, and solvent extraction are utilized. Due to these drawbacks, other extraction techniques have recently started to replace these conventional methods. These conventional procedures frequently entail using an energy source to hasten the transfer of the macromolecules compounds for further processing. This paper explores emerging techniques, such as pulse electric field-assisted extraction, Ionic liquid-based extraction, Subcritical water extraction, pressurized liquid extraction, Enzyme-assisted extraction, supercritical fluid extraction, ultrasonication-assisted extraction, and microwave-assisted extraction. The extraction of macromolecules for fortification purposes offers significant health and commercial benefits, addressing nutritional deficits and malnutrition. By understanding each macronutrient's specific benefits and purposes, effective fortification strategies can be developed to maintain a healthy body.