Process for extraction of pigments from cacao shells, a waste material from philippine tablea production

Abstract

A process for the extraction of pigments from cacao shells, a waste material from Philippine tablea production, is disclosed. The method involves converting lignocellulosic cacao bean shells (CBS) into a stable black colorant through a sequence of drying, controlled carbonization at 300°C, and subsequent aqueous extraction. The resulting liquid extract is concentrated using maltodextrin as a carrier vehicle to reach a total soluble solids level of approximately 16°Brix before being spray-dried into a fine powder. The produced pigment exhibits high physical and microbiological stability, with a moisture content of approximately 5.36% and a water activity of 0.314. For enhanced application in food and non-food matrices, the powder is further formulated into a gel-paste using glycerin or propylene glycol and may be fortified with black iron oxide to increase chromatic intensity. This utility model provides a sustainable and economical method for the valorization of agricultural by-products into high-value industrial colorants.