Acta Biochimica Indonesiana
Vol. 9 No. 1 (2026): Acta Biochimica Indonesiana

Sustainable bromelain extraction from pineapple waste: ATPS purification, freeze-drying, and cosmetic safety evaluation

Ma. Rachel V. Parcon (Standards and Testing Division, Industrial Technology Development Institute)
Gladys Ann B. Bautista (Science Education Institute, Department of Science and Technology, DOST Compound)
Chelsea Kate F. Jose (Standards and Testing Division, Industrial Technology Development Institute)
Jan Anthony N. Ysulat (Standards and Testing Division, Industrial Technology Development Institute)
Geaver Nicolei C. Cortez (Standards and Testing Division, Industrial Technology Development Institute)
Andrea Nicole Y. Abarcar (Standards and Testing Division, Industrial Technology Development Institute)
Pauline Yarah H. Morales (Standards and Testing Division, Industrial Technology Development Institute)
John Cyrus O. Alfaro (Standards and Testing Division, Industrial Technology Development Institute)
Aileen C. Bidol (Standards and Testing Division, Industrial Technology Development Institute)



Article Info

Publish Date
07 Feb 2026

Abstract

Background: Pineapple processing generates substantial waste; peels represent a rich source of bromelain, aproteolytic enzyme with dermatological applications. Objective: To develop sustainable bromelain extraction from pineapple peels using aqueous two-phase system(ATPS), evaluate freeze-dried extract, and assess safety for topical cosmetic use. Methods: Bromelain was extracted using PEG-4000/MgSO₄ ATPS and freeze-dried. Proteolytic activity was quantified by tyrosine release and gelatin digestion assays. Purified bromelain was incorporated into gel cleanser and serum formulations (2-5%, pH 4.5-7.0) and evaluated for physicochemical properties, microbial safety, and skin compatibility through human repeat insult patch testing (HRIPT). Results: The 10% PEG-4000/30% MgSO₄ system achieved optimal balance (37.64% yield, 2.80 U/mL activity). Freezedrying produced free-flowing powder. Formulations met ASEAN microbial limits (<1,000 cfu/g) and demonstrated non-irritating properties with low hypersensitivity risk in HRIPT. Conclusion: ATPS extraction combined with freeze-drying produces stable, bioactive bromelain suitable for safe

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

actabioina

Publisher

Subject

Biochemistry, Genetics & Molecular Biology

Description

Acta Biochimica Indonesiana (ActaBiolna) is a peer-reviewed and open-access journal that disseminates original research articles and review articles covering diverse topics in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. The journal is published biannually by Indonesian Society for Biochemistry and Molecular ...