Jenny Wendy S. Balbuena, Marmelou G. Popes, Arvin John E. Tejereso (March 2013)
Philippine Science High School Western Visayas Campus – Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PSHS WVC), Brgy. Bito-on, Jaro, Iloilo City 5000, Philippines
ABSTRACT
Industries using Red Dragon Fruit are starting to develop here in the Philippines. Production of the fruit is becoming viral. However, people thought its peel to be useless and thus considering it as a waste. This study aimed to utilize the peel as a natural dye source by finding the optimal condition in extracting the dye from the peel. The samples were blended at varying times (1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 min). The ethanol (80%0 was evaporated at varying temperatures (25, 35, 45, 55 and 65°C). Highest betacyanin yield was obtained at 65°C. Samples were then tested of its physico-chemical properties (light stability, pH and pH stability). The dye experienced and excessive degradation during the third day of light exposure. It reacted with basic environment showing a color change from red to yellow. The pH of the dye showed that the dye is slightly acidic with pH ranging from 4.51 to 4.86. further studies should be conducted in the optimization of the results and by including other variables in finding the optimal condition. Nonetheless. results showed that utilization of the peel by extracting dye from it using ethanol extraction method is feasible.