In the global edible oil industry, sesame oil remains a premium product prized for its rich aroma and health benefits. However, traditional extraction methods—such as solvent-based or mechanical pressing—often compromise quality due to high temperatures, chemical residues, or incomplete lipid recovery. Enter supercritical CO₂ extraction, a green technology that’s transforming how manufacturers produce high-purity sesame oil while minimizing environmental impact.
Supercritical CO₂ becomes an efficient solvent when temperature and pressure are precisely controlled. At typical operating conditions (40–60°C and 20–30 MPa), CO₂ exhibits both gas-like diffusivity and liquid-like density—enabling it to penetrate plant material deeply and dissolve oils selectively without degrading heat-sensitive compounds like tocopherols and phytosterols.
| Parameter | Effect on Yield (%) | Impact on Quality |
|---|---|---|
| Low Temp (30–40°C) | 70–75% | High purity, low oxidation |
| Optimal Range (45–55°C) | 82–88% | Best balance of yield & flavor retention |
| High Pressure (>30 MPa) | ↑ Yield but risk of degradation | May reduce volatile aromatics |
According to a 2023 study published in Food Chemistry, optimizing at 50°C and 25 MPa increased sesame oil yield by up to 18% compared to conventional cold-pressing, while preserving over 95% of natural antioxidants. This level of precision is what separates industrial-grade extractors from lab-scale prototypes.
When comparing supercritical CO₂ to hexane solvent extraction or hydraulic pressing:
This isn’t just theory—it’s being adopted by leading food producers in Asia, Europe, and North America. For example, a Turkish processor reported a 20% increase in export margins after switching to supercritical extraction, citing improved shelf life and cleaner label claims.
If you're evaluating this technology for your sesame oil production line, understanding these parameters is just the beginning. Our technical white paper dives into real-world case studies, equipment specs, and compliance tips for international markets.
Download the Full Technical White Paper
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