As global demand for clean-label and premium oils rises, sesame oil producers are turning to supercritical CO₂ extraction—a green, efficient alternative to traditional solvent or mechanical pressing methods. This technique not only enhances yield but also preserves the natural aroma, antioxidants (like sesamin), and nutritional profile of sesame oil.
Unlike hexane-based solvent extraction—which leaves trace residues and degrades heat-sensitive compounds—supercritical CO₂ acts as a non-toxic, tunable solvent that can be adjusted for specific lipid fractions. According to a 2023 study by the Journal of Food Engineering, optimized supercritical CO₂ systems achieve up to 92% oil recovery from raw sesame seeds, compared to 75–80% with cold pressing.
| Extraction Method | Oil Yield (%) | Residual Solvent | Energy Use (kWh/kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supercritical CO₂ | 90–92% | None detectable | 2.5–3.0 |
| Cold Pressing | 75–80% | Minimal | 4.0–5.5 |
| Hexane Extraction | 85–88% | Trace (<0.5 ppm) | 3.5–4.0 |
Successful implementation hinges on precise control of three variables:
In a real-world case from a mid-sized Chinese oil mill, adjusting pressure from 20 MPa to 28 MPa increased yield by 8%, while reducing solvent usage by 30%—all within a 15% higher operating cost due to improved equipment utilization.
For food manufacturers targeting EU, US, or Middle Eastern markets, this method aligns perfectly with clean-label trends, regulatory compliance (e.g., FDA GRAS status for CO₂), and consumer expectations around sustainability.
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