Young durian extract: Groundbreaking ingredient for premium skincare

Utilizing "baby durians," which are typically discarded as agricultural waste, a research team at  Chulalongkorn University led by Professor Dr. Supaart Sirikantaramas, has created a new ingredient for premium skincare products. This initiative not only solves the food waste problem but paves the way for sustainable and eco-friendly practices in the cosmetics industry.

Skincare from young durian fruit by CU Innovation Hub

Spearheaded by InnophytoTech (IPT), a spin-off company fostered by Chulalongkorn University's Innovation Hub, the project focuses on using the fruit’s bioactive compounds and phytochemicals to create extracts. The pectin and procyanidins in baby durian offer moisturizing and antioxidant properties beneficial to the skin.

Green extraction methods are also employed, resulting in high-quality durian extract free from harmful solvents and chemicals, ensuring a pure and potent product. The extract, approved by the FDA, can be incorporated into various cosmetic products, providing benefits like hydration, anti-aging, and protection against antioxidants.

By reducing food waste and using clean extraction methods, the team at IPT is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Applications in the food industry

IPT is exploring further uses for durian in food products like ice cream, juice, and dietary supplements. This aligns with the zero-waste concept, utilizing every part of the fruit to create innovative and sustainable solutions.

Moreover, the company applies plant-based science to address challenges in food products, such as reducing sugar content in fruits like mangoes, bananas, and pomelos. By converting sucrose into fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS), a prebiotic that promotes gut health, IPT is transforming traditionally sweet treats into healthier options.

Professor Dr. Supaart Sirikantaramas believes that this innovation from baby durian and other initiatives will inspire further research into utilizing agricultural byproducts, leading to a more sustainable future. IPT is actively seeking collaborations with brands and manufacturers interested in incorporating sustainable and high-quality plant extracts into their product lines.

Read the full article at https://www.chula.ac.th/en/highlight/212835/