Isolation and characterization of squalene extracted from the processing waste of freshwater fish species
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20367898Keywords:
Squalene, Bioactive substances, Shark liver, Extraction, Renewable sourcesAbstract
Squalene (C30H50) is a natural, highly unsaturated terpenoid hydrocarbon found in animals, plants, and humans, notable for its applications in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and nutraceuticals. Squalene is a bioactive functional lipid that has antioxidant, anticancer, and cardioprotective properties. The present study aimed to extract and purify squalene from the waste of the fish processing and value addition unit. The fisheries industry may have a great impact on addressing poverty and improving the economy of a country. Almost 35-40% of edible fish meat is produced by fish processing, which can be utilized for the production of different products. Our study was planned to extract and purify squalene from different sources by using the method of fractional crystallization to achieve the best yields at the lowest possible cost. The qualitative and quantitative analyses were done on gas chromatography-mass spectrometry to check the purity of squalene. Squalene found its applications in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and nutraceuticals. It was originally extracted from shark liver oil but is easily present in animals, plants, and microorganisms. The richest source of squalene is the shark liver among all available natural sources. Notably, the head portion of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) yielded squalene with a purity of 97%, highlighting its potential as a viable renewable source. Sustainable management of fish waste can result in the recovery of several bioactive substances.
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