Subcritical water extraction was applied as an alternative and
greener method for simultaneous removal of oil and water soluble
extract (WSE) from sunflower kernels. Extraction kinetics and
degree of hydrothermal degradation was studied. Results show
that optimal extraction yield of oil was obtained at 130 C and
M/S = 1:20 g/mL after 30 min. Low presence of oil hydrolysis could
be observed. WSE was found to be more susceptible towards
hydrothermal degradation of which carbohydrates showed the
lowest stability. Hydrolysis of ester and glycoside bonded antioxidants
occurred, which produced oil with much higher antioxidant
capacities than oil extracted using the Soxhlet method.