Optimization of ultrasound-assisted extraction of phenolic compounds from bitter melon (Momordica charantia) using response surface methodology

Bitter melon is rich in phenolic compounds and has significant potential for commercial use as a functional food material. This study aims to optimize ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) conditions for extracting phenolic compounds from bitter melons using a response surface methodology. A central composite design was used to investigate the effects of three independent variables (ethanol concentration, ultrasonic power, and extraction time) on the responses, extraction yield, total polyphenol content (TPC), and antioxidant activity. The optimal UAE conditions were determined to be 59% and 277 W for 14 min, and the corresponding predicted response values for yield, TPC, and antioxidant activity were 33.42%, 18.73 mg GAE/g, and 66.93%, respectively. UAE showed higher extraction yield, TPC, phenolic content, and antioxidant activity than conventional ethanol extraction. These results suggest that bitter melon phenolic compounds obtained by the UAE could be used as natural antioxidant agent or functional ingredient enhancers in suitable food products.