Optimization of simultaneous recovery of oil and protein from sesame (Sesamum indicum) seed

This study investigated the simultaneous recovery of oil and protein from sesame seeds using aqueous extraction technique by the application of factorial design and central composite design. Solid-to-solvent ratio and pH were identified to have the highest significant (p<.05) effects on both oil and protein recovery. High solvent volume and extration temperature favored protein yield. Solvent volume had more influence on the protein yield than the extraction temperature. The significant effect of the extraction temperature was quadratic in nature while solid-to-solvent ratio was both linear and quadratic. Optimization of the extraction process showed that the optimal conditions for the process were found to be solid-to-solvent ratio, 1:3 (w/v); pH, 11; extraction temperature, 47 degrees C and surfactant concentration, 0.1 M NaCl with predicted oil and protein recovery of 73.60% and 75.12%, respectively. The validated values for oil and protein recoveries were 75.02% and 73.10%, respectively. The processing steps are readily scalable. Practical applicationsSesame is an oilseed that contains edible and odorless oil, and with good source of protein for man. The mechanical method of extracting edible oil from oilseeds gives low yield while n-hexane is flammability, explosiveness, and mild toxicity. Simultaneous recovery of oil and protein from sesame seeds using aqueous extraction technique will reduce production cost and time while maintaining high oil and protein yields. The oil can be used for both domestic and industrial purposes, and the protein in food formulation to combat malnutrition.