Optimization of nitric acid-mediated extraction of pectin from cacao pod husks (Theobroma cacao L.) using response surface methodology

This study examined variables that influence the nitric acid-extraction of pectins from cacao pod husks. An initial screening study tested the main parameters influencing yield and uronic acid content by a factorial fractional 33−1 design. Additional studies used response surface methodology using a central composite design. Yield was optimized by increasing temperature. Uronic acid content was higher when pH is decreased and temperature is increased, or when pH is increased and temperature is decreased. To optimize both parameters, extraction conditions of pH 1.5 at 100 °C for 30 min provided a predicted yield and uronic acid content of approximately 9.5% and 80%, respectively. The obtained experimental value for the yield was 9.0 ± 0.4%, the pectin presenting 66.0% uronic acid. Chemical and spectroscopic analyses showed that this pectin is mainly a homogalacturonan highly esterified and acetylated (DE 56.6%; DA 17.1%) with some rhamnogalacturonan insertions.