Hydroxytyrosol powder, alleviating degradation

To alleviate the degradation of hydroxytyrosol, the following aspects can be considered:

I. Controlling storage conditions

Low-temperature storage: Temperature is one of the important factors affecting the stability of hydroxytyrosol. Generally, low temperature can reduce the rate of chemical reactions and minimize the degradation of hydroxytyrosol. It is recommended to store hydroxytyrosol and its related products in a low-temperature environment, such as refrigeration (2 - 8°C) or freezing (below -18°C). For example, in some studies, olive oil samples containing hydroxytyrosol are stored at 4°C. Compared with storage at room temperature, the content of hydroxytyrosol remains relatively stable over a long period.

Light protection: Light can trigger the photooxidation reaction of hydroxytyrosol, thus accelerating its degradation. Therefore, hydroxytyrosol products should be placed in light-proof containers, such as brown glass bottles or aluminum foil packaging, to reduce the impact of light. In practical applications, products rich in hydroxytyrosol, such as olive oil, are usually packaged in dark colors and stored in a cool and dark place to protect the hydroxytyrosol from photodegradation.

Oxygen isolation: Oxygen is one of the key factors leading to the oxidative degradation of hydroxytyrosol. Using sealed packaging and minimizing the contact area of the product with air can effectively reduce the oxidation rate of hydroxytyrosol. For example, during the production and storage processes, nitrogen filling packaging technology can be used to replace the air in the packaging with nitrogen, creating an oxygen-free environment, thereby extending the shelf life of hydroxytyrosol.

II. Adjusting the pH value

Preservation in an acidic environment: Since hydroxytyrosol is relatively stable under acidic conditions, it can be stored in an acidic environment with a pH value of 3 - 5. Appropriate organic acids, such as citric acid and malic acid, can be added to adjust the pH value of the solution. For example, in some beverage formulations containing hydroxytyrosol, adjusting the pH value to the acidic range can effectively inhibit the degradation of hydroxytyrosol and maintain its biological activity.

III. Adding protective agents

Synergistic effect of antioxidants: Adding other antioxidants to act synergistically with hydroxytyrosol can enhance its antioxidant capacity and reduce its own degradation. Common antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin E can form an antioxidant system with hydroxytyrosol to jointly scavenge free radicals, thus protecting hydroxytyrosol from oxidation. For example, in some cosmetic formulations, the simultaneous addition of hydroxytyrosol and vitamin E can significantly improve the antioxidant performance of the product and extend the stable time of hydroxytyrosol.

Inclusion by cyclodextrin: Cyclodextrin has a unique molecular structure that can encapsulate hydroxytyrosol in its internal cavity to form a stable inclusion complex. This inclusion effect can protect hydroxytyrosol from external environmental factors such as oxygen, light, and moisture, thereby slowing down its degradation rate. Studies have shown that after hydroxytyrosol is included by β-cyclodextrin, its stability in an aqueous solution is significantly improved.