Optimization of ultra high pressure extraction (UHPE) condition for puffed ginseng using response surface methodology

Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to determine the optimum ultra high pressure extraction (UHPE) conditions for two independent variables, pressure and time. Extraction yield and crude saponin content increased with both pressure and time. Treatment time, in particular, greatly affected extraction yield and crude saponin content. The optimum conditions for maximizing either extraction yield or crude saponin content were determined to be 446.46 MPa for 14.84 min and 450 MPa for 15 min, respectively. The extraction yield and crude saponin content obtained using conditions optimized for each individual parameter were 22.67±1.23% and 16.59±0.76 mg/g, respectively. On the other hand, extraction performed according to conditions optimized for both extraction yield and crude saponin content produced 23.47±1.04% and 16.59±0.76 mg/g, respectively. Moreover, UHPE was one of the most effective extraction methods compared to other extraction methods (heat reflux, ultrasound-assisted and microwave-assisted extractions).