Advances of non-conventional green technologies for phyto-saccharides extraction: current status and future perspectives

Saccharides play a vital role in the human diet due to their beneficial biological and functional properties. The adverse limitations of conventional extraction methods for plant saccharides have led to the search for advanced, ecofriendly, and cost-effective extraction techniques. This review focuses on the five major emerging advanced non-conventional green techniques: ultrasound-assisted, microwave-assisted, enzyme-assisted, supercritical fluid, and pressurized liquid extractions. The review briefly describes the extraction principle and mechanism, advantages and limitations, and the influential operating parameters for each technique. In addition, recent trends and progress in these advanced extraction methods are discussed with a critical comparison of these techniques. Furthermore, the various process modifications and integration aspects of extraction techniques are scientifically commented upon. Challenges and future research prospects for these emerging green technologies for lignocellulosic biomass extraction are also pointed out, emphasizing the industrial realization of these techniques. Graphical abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.].