Extraction of high-quality Antarctic krill (Euphausia Superba) oil using low-temperature continuous phase-transition extraction equipment

The aim of this study was to explore a processing method for efficient extraction of high-quality krill oil (KO) using a low-temperature continuous phase-transition extraction equipment (LCPE). The efficiency of lipid extraction and quality of KO and defatted krill meal (DKM) by LCPE were compared with those of supercritical CO₂ and n-hexane extraction. Results showed that compared to other methods, extraction using LCPE had the highest lipid yield (21.72 ± 0.34%), bioactive substances, and dimethyl sulfide (3.12 ± 0.09 mg/kg), the lowest oxidative deterioration. Moreover, compared to other methods, DKM extracted by LCPE had the lowest fat (<2%), the highest protein (>60%), and the best oxidative stability. These benefits would ensure easier transportation and better long-term storage, allowing for its application on distant-ocean fishing vessels. Therefore, LCPE is a method that allows for efficient extraction of high-quality KO.